History of Revivals of Religion in the British Isles, Especially in Scotland

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I

I.

HISTORY

OP

REVIVALS OF RELIGION

IN THK

BRITISH ISLES,

ESPECIALLY IN SCOTLAND.

BY THE AUTHOR OF THE " MEMOIR OF THK

REV. M. BRUEN.

K- ■• "

■ . t

V

" Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God -.
for he hath given you the former rain moderately, and he will cause to
come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain."— Jo k r.
Chap. ii. v. 23.

EDINBURGH:

WILLIAM OLIPH&NT AND SON,

7, SOUTH BRIDOB dTRKET ;

WILLIAM WHYTE AND CO., AND JOHN LINDSAY AND "O.. KOINBHRGll j

W. COLLINS, GLASGOW j. W. CURRY AND CO., DUBLIN ;

AND HAMILTON, ADAMS, AND CO., LONDON.

M.DCCC.XXXVI.

fni.NRURGIi: primtp.d by ballantynp andco., pawl's work.

t

» •

• » »'

• • «

• ' •

CONTENTS.

Vaqs

Preface, 1

Introduction,. 5

REVIVALS IN ENGLAND.

Chap. I. Under Venn, at Huddersfield, 26

II. Under Walker, at Truro, Cornwall, 33 J

III. Under Berridge, at Everton, 44

IV. Under Grimshaw, at Haworth, Yorkshire, 60

V. Reflections, 71

VI. Under Wesley and Whitfield, at Kingswood, Bristol, 81

REVIVALS IN WALES.

Chap. VII. Under Owen, Harris, Jones, Williams, and Row-
lands, 90

VIII. Under Charies of Bala, 112

XI. Reflections, 135

REVIVALS IN IRELAND.
Chap. X. Under Blair, Bedell, and Others, 145

REVIVALS IN SCOTLAND.

Chap. XI. Under Wishart and Cooper, 167

XII. Under Welsh, Kennedy, and Stewart, 176

XIII. Under Bruce, under Davidson in General Assem-

bly, at Dunfermline, in Army of ti& OmTxas*..*

at Stevrarton and ItVme untax 1&<&wy&, &*..» \*&

U CONTENTS.

REVIVALS IN SCOTLAND.

Chat. XIV. Account of John Stevenson, 203

XV. Under Guthrie, at Finwick, 212

XVI. Under Livingston, at Kirk of Shotts, 219

XVII. At Cambuslang, 229

XVIII. At Cambuslang, continued, 245

XIX. Reflections, 253

XX. At Kilsyth, Baldernock, Calder,St Ninians, Mut-

hill, and other places, 266

XXI. Under Stewart, at Moulin, 304

XXII. Under M'Bride, in Isle of Arran, 321

XXIII. In Breadalbane, 331

XXIV. In Isle of Skye— General Remarks, 340

»■ XXV. In Isle of Lewis, 355

i

APPENDIX.

False Appearances of the Influences of the Holy Spirit, 335

In North of Ireland,., 397

In England under French Prophets, 390

Prophets in Edinburgh, 393

PREFACE.

The religious world of Great Britain has had its
attention arrested for a few years past by lively
and cheering information from the gigantic scion
Which has sprung from the parent stem on the
other side of the Atlantic; and many have been
oused to emulous zeal and prayerfulness, by read-
ing* of American Revivals, and conversing with
men, the fruits of those revivals, who furnish us
with lovely exemplifications of Christian character.
The question — " Why have we no Revivals in this
country ?" has been put, till it has been aptly an-
swered by another. " Is it true that we have no
Revivals in this country ? " It is a curious evidence
of the neglect to record these most interesting
visitations of the Holy Spirit, that many have ob-
tained, for the first time, an idea that God has at
times dealt in this manner with His church in their
native land, by reading the allusions made to such
things by Jonathan Edwards, in his Accounts of the
Revivals in New England.

A

2 PREFACE.

This little work took its rise from the enquiry,
" Is it true that we have no British Revivals?"
The farther the enquiry was prosecuted, the more
did the information obtained rise in importance,
until it seemed the line of duty to lay before the
Christian community a result convincing as to the
past, and cheering with reference to the future.

The history, as it relates to Revival influences
exhibited in the Church of Scotland since the Re-
formation, is, it is hoped, not very incomplete, and,
in the main, correct ; as, from local circumstances,
materials and means of information relative to the
Church of Christ there, were more easily obtained
ttan as regards the Church in other parts of the
United Kingdom. And proof is thus procured*
that outpourings of the Spirit were not unknown in
that country nearly two centuries before Jonathan
Edwards was taken by surprise with the interesting
visitation at Northampton. In one region of Scot-
land, also, we have the great happiness of exhibiting
a spiritual work, in the Revival form, steadily going
forward at the present hour, which ought to stimu-
late the prayers of those who look for the fulfilling
of the promise of the Spirit in larger measure than
it has yet been possessed.

With respect to England, Wales, and Ireland,
such materials as came readily within reach have
been employed, without any attempt to give a com-
plete history of Revivals in any of these countries,

PREFACE.

but aiming solely to produce convincing evidence
that in all of them lively examples of such events
exist. Imperfect as the accounts are, and to be
found generally in books which mention them only
incidentally, it is probable that all the materials of
this description which might be assembled would
swell to several volumes. The object of the com-
piler has been to avoid extraneous matter, and to
present nothing of religious advancement which has
not partaken of the Revival character, viz. an out-
pouring of the Holy Spirit, which has consisted of
deep conviction, followed by sound conversion,
upon many souls about the same time, and under
the same religious instructors. All these will be
found of the same genus, though differing in
species, according to the state of general cultiva-
tion and previous religious instruction of the
people so influenced; and under whatsoever de-
nomination the work may have taken place, its
scriptural test of unity of character will be found in
all the same — consisting of " repentance towards
God, and faith towards our Lord Jesus Christ."

INTRODUCTION.

On contemplating the works of the Eternal in their
most minute details, as well as in their mightiest
developement8, we cannot fail to discover operations
calculated at once to fill us with the most profound ad-
miration of the divine perfections, and to overwhelm us
with the deepest sense of our own limited powers. This
is true, whether we turn our thoughts to the wonders of
creation, or to the character of Providence, as displayed
either in the history of human affairs or in the influences
of divine grace. In them all we trace the most unequi-
vocal indications of infinite power, wisdom, and goodness,
which yet are continually lost to our view in clouds and
darkness. To a certain extent we can distinctly follow
the designing and beneficent hand of an Almighty Ruler ;
we can see him working, as it were, in open day, and
can confidently and exultingly say, here is the impress
of an all-perfect mind ; and while we gaze, a heavenly
light seems to burst upon us, which opens the invisible
world to our senses, and gives a wider range, and a
higher elevation to our faculties. But at the moment
when we feel raised, as it were, above the grossness
of this nether sphere, and about to enter on brighter
regions of knowledge and intelligence, we are suddenly
arrested in our adventurous course — the beauty, order,

b INTRODUCTION.

and harmony in which we already appeared to expatiate
recede from our view, — the light grows dim and expires,
and we shudder to find ourselves surrounded with a
mysterious and impenetrable gloom.

These reflections, which the contemplative mind will
own to be universally applicable, seem to present them-
selves with peculiar force to the attention of those who
study the history of the Church, both under the Old
Testament dispensation, and under that for which it was
the preparation, the full and free revelation of the gospel
of Jesus Christ. When we look at the broad features of
the scheme of salvation, by which the original promise
was fulfilled, and the seed of the woman bruised the
head of the serpent— the incarnation, the sufferings, and
the death of the Son of God, — the Just One pardoning
sin, in consistency with his inflexible justice, — the Holy
One rewording the unholy with the blessings of his
love, without tarnishing his purity, or abating the sanc-
tions of bis eternal laws, we see a system which, in the
sublimity of its wisdom, and in the condescension of its
grace, is worthy of all adoration and praise. But even
here there are difficulties which human reason attempts
in vain to overcome, and mysteries which must remain
unrevealed till this mortal shall put on immortality.

The same character is observed in the progress of the
Christian Church as in its commencement. Throughout
its whole extent we see a checkered scene of light and
darkness, of prosperity and adversity, — periods in which
the Spirit of God is seen moving far and wide over the face
of the moral chaos, and in the act apparently of restor-
ing all things to primeval beauty, followed by long and
dreary ages of gloomy superstition and spiritual death ;
spots bright for a time with the unclouded glories of the
Sun of Righteousness, then darkening into an ominous

introduction; 7

twilight, and seeming 1 gradually to close in all the hor-
rors of ancient night, till in some new spot the dawn
appears, and a new alternation succeeds.

It is at once mournful and humbling to look back to
the fate of the once highly favoured churches of Asia,
and of those other churches which were founded in the
apostolic age, when the deep and powerful eloquence of
Paul thundered conviction into the souls of appalled
multitudes, or the gentle and affecting voice of the be-
loved .John drew them to his crucified master by the
cords of love, or the impetuous zeal of the self-accusing
Peter pricked them in their hearts, till they cried out,
" Men and brethren, what shall we do ? " And when we
think of the palpable darkness which for many centuries
has brooded, and still continues to brood, over those once
highly favoured regions, where miraculous power ere-
while bore testimony to the commissioned messengers of
Heaven, we feel constrained to lay our hands upon our
mouths, wondering while we adore. Nor is there less of
a mysterious awe shed around the whole subsequent
dealings of Providence in administering the affairs of his
Church. The heresies which early sprang up in the
bosom of Christian communities at the very time when,
with such supernatural rapidity, the truth was breaking
forth on the right hand and on the left,— the persecu-
tions which, while they exterminated the faithful, dis-
played their Christian graces before a wondering world,
and gave new energy and extension to the heaven-sup-
ported cause, — the countenance and support at length
afforded by the civil government, which, on the one
hand, gave triumph to the Christian name, and, on the
other, debased it with superstition, contaminated it with
false doctrine, and perverted it into an instrument of
worldly ambition ; the light which, gradually accumula-
ting in ages of darkness, at last burst forth. m\k *wsk

i

8 INTRODUCTIONS

power and brightness as suddenly to illuminate a large
portion of the world called Christian ; the alternate
clouds and sunshine which attended this heavenly light,
and continued to mark its path ; the sects and divisions
which have since prevailed in Protestant nations, some-*
times removing errors, and at other times causing them
to assume new forms, or giving strength and permanency
to ancient heresies; a pervading spirit of coldness, in-
difference, and practical atheism, alternating with periods
of divine illumination and zeal, or at least occasionally
interrupted by partial displays of the hallowed and enn
nobling character of that revelation which is the power of
God and the wisdom of God. Such is, in few words,
the mysterious history of the religion of the Divine
Being who came to " bring life and immortality to
light by his gospel," and in whom ancient prophecy had
foretold that all the families of the earth should be
blessed.

These are events which deeply affect the hearts of
belie vers, and strongly exercise their faith; but amidst
them all they either trace the hand of unerring wisdom
and goodness, or, when their spiritual vision fails, learn
to turn inward on themselves, and to confess that the
defect lies not in the ways of Providence, but in the
weakness, the waywardness, and the ignorance of their
own shortsighted and sinful minds ; and hence to cherish
more fondly the blessed hope, that the time is approach*
ing when they shall no longer " see as through a glass
darkly."

There is one thing, however, which, by a pious mind,
engaged in reflecting on the history of the Church of
Christ, can neither be overlooked nor misunderstood;
we allude to the evident progress which, amidst all these
advances and retrogressions, the cause of revealed truth
is actually making when considered as a whole. If

INTRODUCTION! 9

periods of extraordinary light have been interrupted by
periods of darkness, the effects of the former have not
been entirely obliterated. Age after age divine know-
ledge has been accumulating ; and even in days of the
deepest gloom men have been gradually, though in
many instances imperceptibly, laying up stores which
were destined to be made available for the improvement
of more favoured times. Every contribution to the stock
of human learning, — every new discovery in science or in
art,— every thing, in short, which has served to develope
the mental powers, or to enlarge the intercourse of society,
all have united, with the more direct influence of Chris-
tian principle, to give new range, expansion, and vital
energy to the operation of revealed truth on the human
mind. The instruments may have been " of the earth
earthy," but they have been secretly overruled by an
unseen hand ; the events may have seemed only to add
vigour to the world liness of selfish and unhallowed men,
but they have also afforded new means, and prepared
new instruments, for the accomplishment of the blessed
promise, that the earth shall be full of the knowledge
of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea. The gene-
ral progress of public opinion in this country has been
justly and beautifully compared to the flowing tide ; and
the same comparison will apply, with an exactness
singularly striking, to the progress of revealed religion.
" Each successive wave rushes forward, breaks, and rolls
back ; but the great flood is steadily coming in. A per-
son who looked on the waters only for a moment might
fancy they were retiring, or that they obeyed no fixed
law, but were rushing capriciously to and fro ; but when
he keeps his eye on them for a quarter of an hour, and
sees one land-mark disappear after another, it is impos-
sible for him to doubt of the general direction in which

10 INTRODUCTION.

the ocean is moved." * An illustration scarcely less ap-
propriate might, perhaps, he drawn from the advance of
the seasons from winter to summer. We have not only
short days, succeeded by long and dreary nights, but pe-
riods of beautiful sunshine and progressive light, followed
by days of gloom and storm, which seem to throw nature
back into all the horror from which it was emerging.
The next day and the next again returns, and still the
threatening aspect of the season may remain ; but spring
is nevertheless advancing — the sun, though obscured by
clouds, has been steadily increasing in his meridian alti-
tude, and day has, by unobserved degrees, been encroach-
ing on the night, till, either gradually, or by a sudden
revolution, the heavy clouds disperse, the keen air be-
comes soft and balmy, the sun looks forth in his strength,
and the green earth and vocal woods rejoice in the genial
influence. Other clouds may gather and other blasts
may blight ; but, amidst every vicissitude, the light be-
comes brighter and longer — the warmth more vivifying
— buds and blossoms more profuse — and every thing
proclaims the approach of summer. If, in simply com-
paring yesterday with to-day, or even the last week with
the present, the progress might seem to be reversed, yet
our judgment is infallibly corrected when we take in a
more extended period, and compare month with month,
and still more when we compare one season with another.
And just so it is with the history of the Christian
Church — amidst every vicissitude the light of the Gos-
pel has been progressive. Even in those ages which
have been emphatically called dark, when fearful igno-
rance cast its Cimmerian shade over the Christian world,
when phantoms of superstition stalked amidst the gloom,

" Edinburgh Review, July, 1835, p. 280.

INTRODUCTION. 11

and when a grinding tyranny bound its chains round the
soul, materials were accumulating in the cloisters of the
monastery, and the closet of the philosopher, which were
to furnish fuel for the flame about to be kindled at the
great era of the Reformation, while among the mountains
of the Alps and Apennines the sacred fire was kept alive
which was destined to light that mighty torch. Nor
must we forget, what is no unusual, though a very
striking characteristic of the operations of Providence,
that while these direct means were in progress, the very
downward force of the opposite principle was destined to
occasion a recoil, and accelerate the crisis ; the yoke was
to become too* heavy to be borne, and the fetters were to
be tightened till they burst. Ever since that memorable
period, the history of the Church has continued to exhibit
the same strongly-marked features, — alternate advance
and retrogression in the shorter periods being uniformly
accompanied with an obvious and triumphant progress
in the longer. It is impossible, indeed, not to lament
the counteracting power of evil, or to hide from our
view the deep depravity of the human heart, which shuts
out the light of heaven, and chills the vivifying in-
fluences of divine truth; but when we look at the
general result in the sure and increasing diffusion of
Christian truth, the mind is cheered and reassured. This
result, harmonizing as it does with the language of pro-
phecy, gives us additional encouragement in looking
forward to the promised time when all the kingdoms of
the world shall own but one King, whose kingdom is not
earthly, and all their inhabitants shall be animated with
but one ambitious wish, whose object is not the fame
which perishes, but the glory which is eternal.

But the work now presented to the public takes in a
far more limited range than that to which this rapid
retrospect alludes. It is confined to the British. Ma&!&s> %

12 INTRODUCTION.

and even here professes not to give any thing approaching
to so much as a sketch of religious history. The simple
object of the compiler is to call attention to some of
the more remarkable instances in which it has pleased
the great Head of the Church to visit particular districts,
chiefly within the last two centuries, with peculiar marks
of his countenance, and striking influences of his spirit.
In this more contracted survey, however, the very same
character may be traced as is presented to our view when
we examine the operations of Providence in the religious
world on a larger scale. In both instances, the Spirit
works in the same mysterious manner, by his sovereign
power controlling events, and overruling intentions and
motives, so as to confound the wisdom of the wise, and
to bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent,
pouring floods of unexpected light on dark and desolate
places, by instruments, in the estimation of the world,
weak and inadequate, and withholding the blessing from
talents, zeal, and fervid eloquence, under circumstances
which appeared to the shortsighted view of mortals to
promise abundant success. Again, we see the progress
of a work arrested which had been begun with the bright-
est prospects, and been the subject of many prayers, an
event which appeared to give a long and alarming triumph
to the powers of darkness ; while, by a way wholly his
own, He who brings good out of seeming evil was per-
haps, by that very triumph, preparing for them the
means of a signal overthrow. Mean while, amidst these
alternations, the cause of Gospel truth advances, and, in
a series of years, the fruits of apparently transient in-
fluences are distinctly seen in the increasing prosperity
of the Church. Such influences, indeed, limited and
partial as they appear, are often the very means by
which the mightier and more extensive changes in ther
condition of religion are effected. It is by an accurau-

INTRODUCTION 13

lation of many comparatively small operations that a city
k built and becomes the emporium of commerce, and
that a country is reclaimed from a state of nature and is
converted into an enclosed and cultivated region ; and
again, to recur to a former illustration, it is by the
united efforts of frequent, but not protracted, periods of
sunshine, alternating with rain, that, notwithstanding the
interruptions of chilling blasts, and lowering clouds, and
bursting tempests, the year is at last crowned with
plenty, and glows in all the beauty of summer. And so
it is with the influences of the Spirit. From the visible
effusion of that divine power on the assembled multitude
on the day of Pentecost, down to the present time, his
operations have been similar in their nature and effects,
resembling rather gleams of blessed sunshine from a sky
generally overcast, than the steady brightness of an un-
clouded atmosphere ; but the genial light and warmth
have been reflected and diffused — the gracious intentions
of Heaven are accomplished and accomplishing — the
seed is sown and grows — amidst all obstructions, the
seasons advance, and harvest approaches.

Few exercises appear either more edifying or more
delightful than those which employ the mind in tracing
the operations of divine grace on the human soul ; whe-
ther we seek for these operations in the lives of insulated
individuals, or in those more rare and remarkable in-
stances in which whole districts have been visited with
peculiar manifestations of the power of religion, and the
work of the Holy Spirit. By such an employment, when
conducted in the spirit of humility and wisdom, we ob-
tain clearer and more mortifying views of the natural
corruption of the human heart, and of the necessity of
divine illumination to enlighten us, and divine power to
create right spirits within us. Nor can we engage in
this study without having the truth im(Te&&fe& ow vsvsx
minds at every step, that the ways of Go& ttcs tk*\. *b> *wx

14 INTRODUCTION.

ways, nor his thoughts as our thoughts. The conver-
sions and revivals which form the subject of the follow-
ing pages, have been regarded by the profane as too
ridiculous to deserve any thing but contempt, while per-
sons of a more sober and contemplative turn have joined
with the votaries of a cold philosophy in viewing them
with a suspicious eye, and have been inclined to attri-
bute most, if not the whole, of the manifestations, to the
excitement of powerful, or perhaps fanatical preaching,
operating on the natural feelings, and increased by the
effects of sympathy, — thus excluding supernatural in-
fluences, and ranking these operations of the Spirit
among the phenomena of a heated imagination.

Now, that the imagination has sometimes a very sur-
prising effect, both on the moral and intellectual powers,
we have n6 wish to deny, and the connexion between
these and the corporeal frame is too well known to make
it wonderful, that a powerful mental excitement should
be accompanied with a corresponding influence on the
body. It must be owned, indeed, to be a matter of
notoriety, that instances of violent and irregular excite-
ment have not unfrequently occurred, both among in-
dividuals and in large communities, which, to a super-
ficial observer, might seem to be of a nature not dissi-
milar to those recorded in this volume, and which yet
have exhibited such characteristics as sufficiently to prove
that they are not the effect of divine agency. Some
examples of this species of false excitement will be found
recorded in the Appendix to this work, which the readei
will do well to study with care. He will thus be led tc
perceive the importance of the apostolical injunction, —
" Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spiritf
whether they are of God ;" and this exercise, when con-
ducted with a humble but earnest desire to know the
truth, will not fail to increase our faith, by throwing ne*
and important light on the operations of divine grace

INTHODUCTION. 15

That Satan should counterfeit the appearance of an
angel of light is no new device, nor are there wanting
avenues by which he can gain access for this malicious
purpose to the human heart. There are always materials
at hand by which individuals and bodies of men can be
excited and deceived, and the extravagances of which
they may be guilty when under such delusion can scarcely
be overrated. If we seek for an example of this on the
largest scale, we shall be at no loss to find it in the his-
tory of the Crusades, when all Europe, by a simultaneous
movement, threw its excited millions on the coasts of
Asia, to rescue the Holy Land from the grasp of an
infidel power. The spirit which, in more modern times,
has filled nations with revolutionary frenzy, and led them
to the most revolting excesses, is of a similar nature ;
and indeed we may trace the same tendency to undue
excitement, aggravated by the powerful effects of sym-
pathy, in the madness of every infuriated mob. But a
species of hallucination, which apparently approaches
nearer to the character of a revival, and sometimes,
indeed, assumes an aspect but too well calculated to
deceive the unstable, is to be discovered in the impulses
of fanatical enthusiasm, which have not unfrequently
disturbed the peace of society. Of this character are the
extravagances of the Anabaptists in Germany, and of
the more amiable Quakers in England. Nor must we
forget the French prophets, who made their appearance
about the beginning of the last century, and deluded so
many with their bold and impious pretensions, both in
that country and in England. Some notice of this ex-
traordinary delusion, nearly resembling that which has
appeared in our own day, supported by the talents and
devoted zeal of an Irving and a Campbell, will be found
in the Appendix already alluded to ; and the reader will
be particularly interested in the singularly ingenuous
account of the attempts of this faiv&UcaX. a^cX Va. \^

16 -INTRODUCTION.

capital of Scotland, detailed in the letters of a highly
respectable clergyman, and now for the first time given
to the public.

It were folly, however, to confound these false appear-
ances with the genuine fruits of the Spirit, nor would it
be more contrary to the dictates of revealed religion than
inconsistent with sound philosophy to conclude, that,
because the human mind may be hurried into extrava-
gances by fanatical excitement, no faith is to be reposed
in supernatural agency, where the effects are altogether
of a different character. The delusive nature of the
appearances above alluded to may be detected by various
infallible tests; among which may be mentioned false
doctrines, immoral practices, extravagant pretensions,
childish or impious conceits, abortive expectations of
supernatural interference, and prophetical utterances
contradicted by the result. On the other hand, the
distinguishing features of a real work of the Spirit con-
sist in the absence of all these unsound views and prac-
tices, and in the exhibition of Christian virtues and
graces, — especially a deep sense of sin, profound hu-
mility, and an entire reliance on the merits of a crucified
Redeemer, accompanied by a love of holiness, displaying
itself in the daily conduct, and not only surviving times
of peculiar excitement, but continuing stedfast to the
last.

This is true, whether we refer to individual cases of
conversion or to those memorable occurrences in which
a peculiar awakening of many souls to the knowledge and
power of religion, by a simultaneous effusion of the Spirit,
has been vouchsafed to particular districts of the churc h
The latter, indeed, do not differ from the former in kind
but only in juxtaposition as to time and place. Every
time a fallen child of Adam is brought out of his natural
darkness into the marvellous light of divine truth, this
work is accomplished by the power of the Holy Spirit.

INTRODUCTION. 17

This is conversion, whether it take place gradually and
even almost imperceptibly in the use of the ordinary
means of grace, or more suddenly and strikingly by ar-
resting the sinner in the midst of a headlong career of
worldline88. Many such conversions, occurring at the
same time and in the same place, constitute what has
been called a Revival. In both instances, the same
sovereign will is displayed, and the same vivifying powers,
and in both the believer traces and adores the same
unerring wisdom and the same unspeakable grace. There
is this only difference, that a Revival, coming with more
outward observation, and operating more suddenly on
friends and neighbours, excites a more powerful and
glowing sympathy. The overpowering sense of sin,
which, in the case of an individual conversion, would
have been pent up, perhaps, in the secret recesses of the
heart, obtains free vent where many are similarly affected;
the perception of divine grace in the wonders of redeem-
ing love, which might otherwise have caused the soul to
overflow with love and gratitude only in its own inward
feelings, is now cherished and brought to light by the
warmth of congenial sentiments ; heart communicates
with heart— one sympathetic emotion runs from indivi-
dual to individual, and from family to family ; in the
house of prayer, the fervid minds of the audience take
fire at the words of the servant of God, and are torn with
remorse, or glow with love, or melt with tenderness, as
the corresponding chord is struck in the heart. Under
such circumstances, can it be thought either wonderful
or irrational that the deeply cherished, and unspeakably
important sentiments of the heart should find expression
in outward symptoms of astonishment, of sorrow, or of
delight ? " In a Christian assembly, blessed with the abun-
dant pouring out of the spirit from on high," says an en-
lightened writer, " I should not be &ut\sri&feAi VS^to^^qa

B

18 iNTRamreTioir;

impression of love or of terror from so mighty an agent
should in some cases overwhelm for a time the powers of
animal nature ; or break in a little on that external order
which dead formalists are left perfectly capable in all
points to observe."

The truth is, that our holy religion presents to the
mind subjects of such paramount importance, the hopes
which it inspires are so exalted, and its terrors so tremen*
dous, while the mercy and grace which it reveals are so
engaging, that it seems impossible for any rational being
to be awakened to an adequate sense of them without
being filled with emotions for which language has no
utterance. Were not the mind of man naturally blind to
divine things, the agitation and excitement whieh have
been ridiculed as so irrational in a revival, would be uni-
versal throughout the Christian world, and would be felt
by all to be nothing more than the obvious and reason-
able consequence of the perception of divine truth. The
power of the Holy Spirit merely removes a veil from the
heart, and a film from the eyes. It enables us to see
clearly, to reason justly, and to feel correctly. It is our
natural state of coldness and indifference which deserves
to be branded with the name of folly. To tremble under
convictions of sin, to flee from* the wrath to come, to
adore our Creator, to bless our Redeemer, and to feel and
act as expectants of immortality, — this alone is true wis-
dom. And what is this but to be converted ? The dis-
pensation of the gospel is peculiarly a dispensation of the
Holy Spirit. Though the mighty work which was
" finished " on Calvary is the blessed — the unspeakable
labour on which depends the redemption of lost millions,
yet the Son of God would have died in vain had not
means been provided for applying to all the subjects of
his kingdom the salvation which he had purchased for
them. In bestowing this inestimable gift, with all the
blessings attached to it, the Holy Spirit is tae agent.

INTRODUCTION* 19

Our Lord declared this to his disciples when he was about
to quit the world, " When the comforter is come whom
I will send unto you from the Father, even the spirit of
truth which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify
of me. He shall guide you into all truth. He shall
receive of mine and shall show it unto you." * Nay, so
important are the influences of this comforter, that Jesus
hastened, as it were, his departure to make room for him.
" It is expedient for you that I go away ; for if I go not
away the comforter will not come unto you ; but if I
depart I will send him unto you." f Thus then the com-
pletion of the " consolation" which had so long been
waited for was remitted by the Lord himself into the
hands of the Holy Spirit. The church has enjoyed the
first fruits of that promise. First of all they were mani-
fested in the persons of the disciples themselves. No
sooner was the gift bestowed than they suddenly arose
from a slough of prejudice, worldly ambition, and timi-
dity, to courage, disinterestedness, and spiritual discern-
ment. Who were presently so intrepid as they who had
but recently deserted their master and fled in dastardly
terror ? Who so regardless of ease and temporal advance-
ment as they who had formerly quarrelled for anticipated
places of earthly honour ? Who so faithful as they who
had denied their benefactor and friend in the hour of his
enemy's triumph ? With what new fervour and emotion
was their preaching distinguished ? What holiness, meek-
ness, and charity now adorned their characters and sanc-
tified their lives ? Under the influence of the Spirit of
truth, the testimony which they bore to Jesus was
attended with demonstration and with power. Thousands
on thousands were converted and subdued, and wherever
they went the cause of Christ mightily prevailed. If,
while their master was alive, they returned to him with

• John, jv. 26; and *vi. 13, 14. "\ Wtaa>^s\» V

20 INTRODUCTION.

joy, saying, that even the devils were subject to them,
with how much greater joy must they have exercised
those gifts of the spirit which melted the hearts of both
Jews and Gentiles, and constrained them to own that
the crucified Jesus was both Lord and Christ t

Since those days of miraculous power the ordinary
influences of the Spirit have not ceased to operate, and
have, even in the darkest periods of ignorance and super-
stition, been advancing, as we have already observed, the
interests of pure and undefiled religion. That its pro-
gress has been slow and sometimes even retrograde, while
on the one hand it may be resolved into the sovereign
will of Him who doeth all things well, must on the other
be attributed to the perverseness and the enmity of those
to whom the offer of salvation is freely made. If it be
asked why the promise of righteousness and peace to the
world is so long delayed, we may confidently answer, that
it is not because the arm of God is shortened, or his ear
heavy. The obstruction lies with ourselves. He calls,
but we will not answer. He offers, but we refuse. The
means of grace are ample, but our hearts are hard. In
the ministers of the gospel there seems to be increasing
life and zeal, but can it be said that the people second
their efforts and gladly hear their voice ? Alas ! com-
plaints of carelessness and deadness are heard on every
side. In England the way of salvation is proclaimed
from very many pulpits — sedulously and pitifully pro-
claimed ; and yet, when you ask the pastors to show you
the faithful of their flock, they reply with a groan, " Who
hath believed our report ? " The people crowd perhaps
to church, and attend to all the outward decorum beco-
ming Christian congregations, and then withdraw as unin-
fluenced by solemn warnings and earnest invitations as if
they heard them not. In Scotland we have this testi-
mony from one of its most faithful pastors about the end
of last century : " The gospel is no where t&oxq «hl^ oy

INTRODUCTION. 21

more plentifully preached than in Edinburgh and its
environs, but it is not apparently accompanied with that
power which our fathers have told us it used to be. At
the same time the servants of the Lord seem to be won-
derfully assisted in boldly declaring the genuine gospel of
Christ." Since that period faithful ministers of the gos-
pel seem to have rapidly increased in every corner of the
land ; but we are still at a loss to discover any very
marked effects of their zeal in giving rise to a praying
people. How affecting is it to hear a minister of the free
and blessed gospel say from his pulpit, " I have laboured
among you for more than thirty-five years, and were any
one to ask me ' where are the fruits of your labours ? ' I
should be confounded, and know not what to answer ! "

How long shall we hear sermons which shut us up to
the only way of deliverance through the cross of Christ —
Nay, how long shall the people demand such sermons,
and admire them, and tolerate no other, and yet listen to
them without conviction and without emotion ? How
long shall the gospel be preached in its purity and not in
its power ? Shall we make that condemnation and death
to our souls which ought to be life and glory ?

The quickening power is too often neglected in this
mighty concern. We have the letter which killeth, but
the spirit which giveth life is awanting. The distinguish-
ing characteristic of the Christian dispensation, as we
have said, is the work of the Holy Spirit. Do our pastors
hold forth this characteristic with sufficient emphasis ?
While Christ is preached to us distinctly enough as the
Saviour of sinners, is this all-important doctrine pro-
claimed as a fact to be believed, and to exercise the un-
derstanding, rather than as a truth which ought deeply
to affect the heart, and entirely to influence the conduct ?
Is there any backwardness and reserve in bringing home
to the minds of hearers the necessity of t\i& &lyvx& ^\-
mYs operation, or in faithfully warning tWxv \JbaX w&v-

62 INTRODUCTION*

tmt power from on high they cannot savingly accept of
the truth, or become wise unto salvation ? While we
are taught to believe that our souls must be born again,
is there no reluctance freely to declare that, even after
conversion, we can receive no spiritual gift, and make no
advance in holiness, except through the medium of the
Spirit ? Under these impressions is there any lack of
incitement ceaselessly and earnestly to pray for the aid of
this life-giving agent ? Assuredly if there be a defect in
the preaching of the present day as to these vital princi-
ples, it cannot be matter of surprise that the influence of
the pastor's ministrations should be feeble, and that the
flock should languish for want of nourishment. Were
the minister to enter his pulpit, and the people their
•seats, convinced that without the Spirit's intervention
preaching and hearing are alike powerless, how different
might be the result ! Were it laid on our conscience and
on our understanding that we must always in all duties,
by prayer seek the teaching and assistance of the Spirit,
that we must pray for this gift while we read, that we
must pray for it while we hear, that we must pray for it
while we speak, and even pray for it with every act of
confession, supplication, or thanksgiving, might we not
expect to obtain the inestimable blessing, and to be visited
with some of those times of refreshing from the Lord,
which should prove that he is amongst us of a truth ?

What avails all the apparatus of Christianity without
the living principle to give it efficacy ? Our country is
divided into parishes, each possessing its pastor and its
eldership, with its church and its school ; our cottages
are furnished with Bibles ; our scattered hamlets are
strewn with religious tracts ; Scriptural knowledge,
though far from being universal, is not rare among us ;
daring vice and impiety are kept under restraint. But
«ven in these advantages and privileges does there not
fik a snare ? Have they not become \o \*s *& VJaa ^c^fc

INTRODUCTION. 23

is to the land of Egypt ? We regard them as our ferti-
lizing stream* We water the land with our foot, and
trust that the fructifying influence is there ; and thus we
are visited with barrenness. If our work is to prosper,
if our own souls are to prosper, we must look higher than
ordinances for our refreshment ; we must drink water of
the rain of heaven. The Lord must care for us. His eye
must be ever upon us, and his ear open to our cry. And
surely, if we feel the helplessness of our natural condi-
tion, and apply for that strength which is made perfect
in weakness, He who hath said " Ask and ye shall
receive that your joy may be full," will not be unfaith-
ful to his own promise.

Is it not a time for those who pray at all to arouse
themselves, and seek more earnestly the best gifts, when
the powers of our country, both political and religious,
are in commotion ; when many conflicting opinions and
clashing interests are at work to unsettle old institutions ;
and when there may be a dearth of grace and wisdom to
reconstruct the fabrics, or give strength and stability to
their shaken foundations ? While some of our legislators
would make no difficulty about the re-establishment of
Popery in a misruled and afflicted portion of our empire,
and others would cleave to our Protestant establishments ;
some from enlightened and pious attachment, and others
from more timid or prejudiced adherence to things as they
are ; and while a new and unlooked for party project to
purify the Church of Christ, and strengthen and enlarge
its borders by depriving it of all pecuniary aid from the
state, and shaking it loose from the protection of constitu-
ted authority; — while men, entertaining these various and
jarring sentiments, are each working in their own way to
promote their own ends, where is our shelter ? Where
pur deliverance ? Is it not in Him whose name is a
strong tower, into which the righteous rawaeXXi, wv\ \&
safe? He passes by the minor differences,* 3 ^ &\%wras»

24 INTRODUCTION.

the bitter contending^ of party, while, without respect to
church order and government, he pours out his Holy
Spirit on the meek and lowly in heart, and revives the
souls of the prayerful. Leaving men to arrange the local
circumstances and conveniences of his church, he gathers
out of all the denominations of worshippers who hold
" the truth, once delivered to the saints/' a people for
himself. Christ is not divided, and his members must be
knit together by holier and more indissoluble ties than
those which are formed by sect or party. They are
drawn together by the bonds of Christian love, and uni-
ted, in one spiritual body, to the Head, by the plastic
and constraining power of the Holy Spirit. We cannot
hope that He who has been emphatically called the Prince
of Peace will look down with favour on our land while
Ephraim envies Judah, and Judah vexes Ephraim* But
if believers would only unite in humble, earnest, and per-
severing prayer for those divine influences which he has
promised to shed abroad on his church, we should soon
have other work to do than to engage in unhallowed
strife. A breath from the Spirit of Holiness, convincing
the worldly-wise of their common misery and their com-
mon hope, would dissolve all their views of expediency
and of self-aggrandizement like a morning dream ; as
effusion of that love which pervades the regions of
heavenly peace would combine all the disjointed materials
of which the church on earth is formed. Prayer and sup-
plication, with thanksgiving, would occupy bosoms which
are now the seat of misgiving and coldness ; one hope
and one labour of love would blend the sympathies of
believers ;. and while they united their efforts in guiding
the perplexed through the mazes of doubt, and in con-
ducting the convicted to the foot of the cross, angry con-
tention would cease, sectarian prejudices would give way*
and the servants of Jesus would wonder that they had
ever differed*

REVIVALS OF RELIGION,

CHAPTER I.

This and the three following- chapters contain each an
account of a work of grace in parts of England remote in
situation, yet taking place within a few years of each
other, and some of them going on at the same date. It
does not appear that any of the excellent pastors who were
the honoured instruments in promoting the work, were
acquainted with the operations of the rest, or that their
own religious impressions had commenced or been nur-
tured during their academic course. Nay, it is remark-
able, that Walker, Berridge, and Grimshaw preached for
years without knowing the true plan of salvation, and
their own minds were disfranchised from the trammels
of error and prejudice, only after periods of hard conflict.
Venn and Berridge became attached friends late in life,
and were both made instrumental in leading the minds
of some members of the University of Cambridge to em-
brace evangelical truth. The fruit which sprung of this
happy combination, in the characters of Simeon and
others, remains to this day, and has furnished faithful
guides to many English parishes, which were previously
in a desolate condition. Walker was the friend of Ro-
main, and through him, of several other good men of his
day, and united with them in seeking to influence the
minds of clergymen in various parts of the kingdom.
Grimshaw seems to have stood alone in the energy of
his eccentric faithfulness ; and till he \m &qm^ci\. qtcXV}

26 REVIVAL UNDER VENN

Whitefield, and through that circumstance shared his
name of Methodist, he seems scarcely to have found a
clerical friend who understood him. There arose soon
after him, however, a band of holy men, who appreciated
his worth ; and his life by John Newton, written thirty
years after he had ceased from his labour?, is a pleasing
evidence that his work has left a long trace behind it.

REVIVAL UNDER VENN AT
HUDDERSFIELD.

[1759.] The Rev, H. Venn removed from Clapham,
where he had not experienced the success which he hoped,
and settled at Huddersfield, in Yorkshire. As soon as
he began to preach there, the church became crowded
to such an extent that many were not able to procure
admission. Numbers became deeply impressed with con-
cern about their immortal souls, and persons flocked from
the distant hamlets, enquiring what they must do to be
saved. He found them in general utterly ignorant of
their state by nature, and of the redemption that is in
Christ Jesus. His heart yearned over his flock, and he
was never satisfied with his labours among them, though
they were continued to a degree ruinous to his health.
He often addressed the congregation from the desk,
explaining and enforcing the Psalms and the lessons.
He would often begin the service with a solemn and most
impressive address, exhorting them to consider them-
selves as in the presence of the great God of Heaven,
whose eye was in a particular manner upon them whilst
they drew nigh to him in his own house. His whole
soul was engaged in preaching ; and as at this time he
only used short notes in the pulpit, ample room was left
to indulge the feelings of compassion, of tenderness, and
of love, with which his heart overflowed towards his
people. In the week, he statedly visited the different
hamlets in his extensive parish., and collecting the iuha-

AT HUDDERSFIELD. 27

bitants at a private house, he addressed them with a kind-
ness and earnestness which moved eyery heart. Oppo-
sition, however, followed him here. He was assailed
frith the old and slanderous insinuation, that while he
preached the doctrine of justification by faith alone, he
undervalued moral worth, and neglected to enforce works,
though his whole life was a practical confutation of such
a falsehood, and the lives of those who received the doc-
trines he preached became so strict and exemplary, that •
they were immediately accused of the opposite extreme^
of carrying holiness to an unnecessary length.

A club, chiefly composed of Socinians, in a neighbour-
ing market-town, having heard much censure and ridicule
bestowed on his preaching, sent two of their body, whom
they considered the ablest to detect absurdity, and the
most witty to expose it, to hear this strange preacher,
and to furnish matter of merriment for the next meeting.
They accordingly went ; but could not but be struck,
when they entered the church, to see the multitude that
was assembled together, and to observe the devotion of
their behaviour. When Mr Venn ascended the reading
desk, he addressed his flock as usual, with a solemnity
and dignity which showed him to be deeply interested in
the work in which he was engaged. The earnestness of
his preaching, and the solemn appeals he made to con-
science, deeply impressed them, so that one of them ob-
served as they left the church, " Surely God is in this
place ! — there is no matter for laughter here I " This
gentleman immediately called upon Mr Venn, told him
who he was, and the purpose for which he had come, and
earnestly begged his forgiveness and his prayers. He
requested Mr Venn to visit him without delay, and left
the Socinian congregation, and from that time, to the
hour of his death, became one of Mr Venn's most faith-
ful and affectionate friends.

The deep impression made by his preaching upon all
ranks of the people was indeed very striking. A gentle-
man, highly respectable for character, talents, and piety,
the late William Hay of Leeds, who frequently went to
Huddersfield to hear him preach, asswied \kfc ntoXsx <&

28 REVIVAL UNDER VENN

his memoirs, that once on returning home with an inti-
mate friend, they neither of them opened their lips to
each other till they came within a mile of Leeds, a dis-
tance of about fifteen miles ; so deeply were they impres-
sed by the very important truths which they had heard
from the pulpit, and the very impressive manner in which
they had been delivered.

At the distance of fifty years, the author of the life of
Venn went to Huddersfield, to ascertain how far the re-
collection of his labours had survived the lapse of nearly
two generations. We present a portion of the result of
his enquiries, which marks how solemn and lively a work
of the Spirit was carried on under his ministry in that
place ; and also proves that it was not a mere transient
excitement, but a solid operation of the power of divine
grace, bringing forth the fruits of righteousness in old
age.

Mr Brook of Longwood states, that there was a meet-
ing every Saturday night of the most pious people at
Thomas Hanson's, sometimes near twenty, who sang
and prayed together. "'I was first," said he, u led to go
to Huddersfield church by listening with an uncle of
mine, Mr Mellor, at the door of the house in which this
meeting was held. We thought there must be some*
thing uncommon to make people so earnest. My uncle
was about nineteen — I was sixteen— so we went toge-
ther to the church one Thursday evening. There was
a great crowd within the church, all silent, many weep-
ing. The text was * Thou art weighed in the balance,
and found wanting/ Mr Mellor was deeply attentive,
and, when we came out of church, we did not say a word
to each other till we got some way into the fields. Then
Mr M. stopped, leaned his back against a wall, and
burst into tears, saying, ' I can't stand this ! ' His con-
victions of sin were from that time most powerful, and
he became quite a changed character — a roost exemplary
person, as you will hear from the old people, even if
they did not like his religion : he died some years after.
I was not so much affected at that time, but I could not
after that sermon be easy in sin, and I began, to ipro^

AT HUDDERSFIELD. 29

regularly, and so by degrees I was brought to know my-
self, and to seek salvation in earnest. The people used
to go from Longwood in droves to Huddersfield church,
three miles off — scores of them came out of church to-
gether whose ways home were in this direction, and they
aged to stop at the First End, about a mile off, and talk
over for some time what they had heard before they se-
parated to go to their homes. Oh ! that place has been
to me like a little heaven below. I never heard a mini-
ster like him. He was most powerful in unfolding the
law. When doing so, he had a stern look that would
make you tremble — then he would turn off to the offers
of grace, and begin to smile, and go on entreating till
his eyes filled with tears."

George Crow, aged eighty-two, when asked if ever
he thought of old times, replied, " 'Ah ! yes, and shall
do to the last. I thought when Mr Venn went I should
be like Rachael for the rest of my days, weeping, and
refusing to be comforted. I was abidingly impressed the
first time I heard him, at an early period of his ministry.
He was such a preacher as I never heard before nor since
— he struck upon the passions like no other man. No-
body could help being affected — the most wicked and ill-
conditioned men went to hear him, and felly like slaked
Hme 9 in a moment, even though they were not converted.
I could have heard him preach all night through.

« There were many used to go from Lockwood every
Sunday and Thursday — we had a meeting of the most
pious at Mrs Scholefield's, about twenty of us, where a
subject given out one time was discussed the next — one
of us was the leader, and opened with prayer — after-
wards he asked all round their opinions, and concluded
with prayer. It is kept up to this day, though now but
a few of us. The meeting at Longwood had more than
ours. There was another at Berrybrow ; and one, a
kind of general one, at the town.

" I was one of those who went to Mr Venn with a
large body of people, just before he left Huddersfield, to
persuade him to stay. There were more than two rooms
could hold. * * After Mr Venn \«£fc, \ii* ^o^&

30 REVIVAL UNDER VENN

were all squandered away from the church, so some of
us determined to begin a subscription for a chapel. I
was one of the first who put their names down. I had
only £5, and gave that ; and I query whether I have
ever had so much in my pocket since.

" I knew Mr Riland well (Mr Venn's curate) — he
was an excellent man ; he used to visit much among the
poor — he often came to me whilst I was at work, and
sat down upon the block, or any thing, and would say,
4 Well, George, how are you ? Either ask me some-
thing or tell me something. Be quick ! for I have much
to do and little time.' "

The religion of this poor man was of a very advanced
and mature character. He quoted passages from Swe-
denborgh's writings, which, he said, he had read a great
deal of, but though there were some good things, " it
was chiefly random stuff."

Sally P , aged seventy-four, spoke of my grand-
father (Mr Venn), with great reverence, but with deep
emotion. I asked her, whether she often thought about
him ? She replied, " Ah sir, I have often thought about
him, and the pains he took with us ; but it was all lost
upon some of us. He hud a most piercing tone, and
things that he said have ever since stuck to my mind."
" I remember, that just before he went, he told us all,
that he had broken up our fallow ground, and sown good
seed, but that if we did not watch over it, and it did not
become fruitful, it would be so much the worse for us ;
and so it has been with me. It is very sorrowful to
think of these things ; and sometimes it makes me very
low."

John Starkey, aged eighty, as I conversed with him,
seemed gradually to wake up, till his countenance glis-
tened with joy. His faculties are still perfect, and his
recollection ready and distinct. There was in him an
uncommon warmth of affection and benevolence. He
said, " I esteemed Mr Venn too much for a man ; I
almost forgot that he was only a creature, and an in-
strument. His going away went nearer to my heart
than any thing since, I was very wild and careless when

AT HUDDERSfrlELD. 31

a lad, and would not go to church ; so Mr Whi taker
promised me sixpence if I would go three times, but I
don't know whether I earned it, I was so careless about
every thing ; however, soon after, I heard one sermon
which made me begin to think. The text was, ' God
is no respecter of persons ;' and he showed that it was
neither money nor learning, nor any thing else of the
kind which could make us happy; but that without
holiness we were under God's frown and curse. I then
saw something of my real state ; and from that time I
did not want hiring to hear him. I do not think any
thing would have kept me from him. He was a wonderful
preacher. When he got warm with his subject, he looked
as if he would jump out of the pulpit. He made many
weep. I have often wept at his sermons. I could have
stood to hear him till morning. When he came up to
the church, he used to go round the churchyard and
drive us all in before him. About seven or eight of us
who lived at CawclifF used to meet at each other's
houses once a-week, for reading the Scriptures and
prayer, but all my companions are now gone; and i
often think I am left alone, as David says, ' like a
sparrow upon the house-top/ It is a grief to me that I
have now no one to talk with about spiritual things, but
then I think, I am almost turned eighty, and God has
helped me hitherto — blessed be his name ! I cannot
he much longer here, and I must not faint at last. That
text has often cheered my spirits, — « Be content with
such things as ye have ; for He hath said, I will never
leave thee nor forsake thee/ These words gave me
comfort, for He has not forsaken me ; and then there is
another, — i With loving kindness have I drawn thee/ —
Oh blessed, blessed be His name, for His great loving-
kindness ! I often think time is too short to praise
him. Eternity alone will be long enough. I have
found it to be as the Scripture says, — < We must through
great tribulation enter the kingdom of Heaven/ I have
been tried in many ways." *

• Life of Venn, p. 49.

32 REVIVAL UNDER VENN.

[1771-] Mr Venn's bodily strength failed unde:
ceaseless exertions. The gospel treasure retained its
cious savour, but the earthen vessel was wellnigh brc
He had a cough, and brought up blood, and was able
to preach once in a, fortnight, and even that exertion
dered him incapable of rising for several days. He
therefore, induced to accept the rectory of Yelling, th
his feelings were deeply wounded by leaving a i
amongst whom he had laboured with so much sue
The last two or three months of his residence were ]
liarly affecting. At an early hour the church was cr
ed when he preached, so that vast numbers were
pelled to go away. Many came from a considerable
tance to take leave of him, and to express how x
they owed to him for benefits received under his mini
of which he had not been- aware. Mothers held up
children, saying, " There is the man who has been
most faithful minister, and our best friend ! " The v
parish was deeply moved, and when he preached his
well sermon, neither could he himself speak withou
strongest emotion, nor the congregation hear him i
out marks of the deepest interest and affection. No
the impression soon wear away : twenty years afl
stranger passing through that place, and enquiring s
their former pastor, heard blessings showered down
him and his family with deeply affected hearts, v*
they deplored their own loss.

V

C ss j

CHAPTER II.

REVIVAL UNDER WALKER, AT TRURO, IN CORNWALL.

[1746.] At the time when the Rev. Samuel Walker
entered upon the curacy of the populous town of Truro,
he was not himself acquainted with the doctrine of the
complete depravity of man, and with justification by faith
alone, hut, like Mr Berridge, Mr Grimshaw, and many
other successful preachers in England, and like Dr. Stew-
art, and Dr Chalmers, in Scotland, he had preached for
several years before he perceived distinctly that the object
of his work was the conversion of men. He was, from
the first, highly esteemed for the decency and regularity
of his conduct, as well as for his learning and gentlemanly
manners ; but it was not till a year of his ministrations
in Truro had elapsed, that he discovered the necessity of
" putting off the old man and putting on the new."
Being in company with some friends, the subject of
whose conversation turned on justification by faith, he
became sensible, as he freely owned afterwards, that he
was totally unacquainted with that faith which had been
the topic of the discourse, and also convinced that he was
destitute of something which was of the greatest impor-
tance to his own salvation, as well as the salvation of the
people committed to his charge. He said nothing at the
time of the concern he was brought under to any of the
company, but was ever afterwards, as opportunity offered,
ready to enter upon the subject. He began to discover
that he had hitherto been ignorant of the nature of gos-
pel salvation, inattentive to the spiritual state of his own
soul and the souls of others, and governed in all his con-
duct, not by the Christian motives of love to God and
man, but purely by such as were wholly sensual and sel-
fish ; be found that he was a slave to t\& fa&vro <& tosx^

34 REVIVAL UNDER WALKEH

esteem, and, in short, as he himself expressed it, that all
had been icrong, both within and without.

Upon this discovery, he applied himself with diligence
and fervent prayer to the study of the Holy Scriptures,
and haying by these means gained a farther insight into
the nature of man's spiritual disorder, and of the remedy
afforded in the gospel, this necessarily led him to make a
considerable alteration in his preaching, &c. &c f A
meditation written about this time, when he returned
'from a meeting of neighbouring clergymen, expresses the
state of his mind in a way that must interest a Christian
reader.

" For my own part, I lived many years in entire igno-
rance of a corrupted nature, although I had learnt to-
reason in a speculative and historical way upon, man'*
degeneracy. Since it hath pleased God in some measure
to enlighten the eyes of my understanding, I look back
upon those days of blindness, and plainly see, that while
I kept to an external customary decency, and in some
sense regularity, I was influenced and acted upon by two
hidden principles, as contrary to God as darkness is to
light. The one a prevailing desire and reputation of
being esteemed, which went through all I did, followed
me into all companies, dictated all I said, led me to com-
pliance often in direct opposition to conscience, made me
above all things fearful of being thought little of, directed
all my sermons, both in writing and in speaking them, and,
in short, swayed my whole life, till, I hope, the latter
years of it. The other, a desire of pleasure which ren-
dered me slothful, indolent, and restless out of com-
pany, eager after amusement, &c. ; but this was so su-
bordinate to the other, that I was always best delighted
with such entertainments as gave me opportunity of set-
ting off any excellence I might seem to have, such as
music and dancing. By these two the strong man kept
the palace of my heart, and all was peace ; and that in so
strange a manner, that I do not recollect the least suspi-
cion of my being out of the way, for I had learnt to rest
upon my freedom from the grossest vice ; *and keeping a
sort of strictness, in attending upon the forms of my
ministry, and especially in engaging otiitra \o *&tae*L

AT TRURO, |N CORNWALL. 3d

them. Were I to say with how many heartfelt pangs of
fear and disquietude I have been brought, during these
latter years, to any reasonable measure of indifference
about the esteem of the world, I should describe the pas-
sages which have most engrossed my mind. The love of
pleasure decayed first ; but yet, I could only part with it
by degrees ; and many things of that sort 1 continued in
when I had no pleasure in them, because I was ashamed
to leave them"

It need be no matter of surprise if many of the gay and
worldly follow their unsatisfactory pastimes long after
they cease to find them gratifying, the slaves alike of
their own evil habits and fear of " the world's dread
laugh," when a minister of the everlasting gospel confes-
ses himself so completely the bondsman of the opinions
of lookers on. No power, short of that which convinces
that it will profit us nothing to gain the whole world
and lose our own souls, can overcome the reluctance, the
8upineness, the timidity, which, each in succession, pre-
sent themselves as obstacles to our changing our ways,
and seeking new delights.

[1758.] Mr Walker published a letter to a clergyman
concerning the first question in the office for the ordain-
ing of deacons, in which he says of himself.

" As I was ignorant of the salvation that is in Christ
Jesus, and of my want of him in all his offices, so I had
not taken the least notice of the spiritual state of others.
It was to me as a thing I had no concern with, that sins
of the grossest kind were committed on every side of me.
And after I was ordained, I had no sight or thought of
the condition my parishioners were in, though I had
some desire that they should come to church and sacra-
ment, and not drink, swear, and the like." Again he
says, " It was at least a year after the kind providence of
God brought me hither, ere I fell under considerable
suspicions or uneasiness about myself and my manner of
preaching; when, by the frequent conversation of a
Christian friend (verily the first person I had met with
truly possessed of the mind of Christ), I became sensible
all was wrony within and without. My \me*&\T&&% t**&

d6 REVIVAL UNDER WALKER

rather abiding than violent, possibly because my life had
been free of gross sins, having in a good measure been
used to follow the direction of my conscience, and the
change wrought upon me was slow, till, under a variety
of means, I was brought to the knowledge of the truth
as it is in Jesus/'

In speaking of his motives for undertaking the curacy
of Truro, Mr Walker often accused himself of the most
unworthy views. He confessed that he was not actuated
by the least measure of a ministerial spirit; but that his
only motive for going to live in that populous town, in
preference to any other place in the country, was the
greater resort of company, and that he might take his
pleasure at the assemblies, particularly in dancing. He
proceeds — " As this work was going forward in myself,
the people were made partakers of the effects of it ; — by
and by I began to deal with them as lost sinners, to beat
down formality and self-righteousness, and to preach
Christ. The fruit of this, by the mighty working of the
spirit, quickly appeared. It was a new way to them.
They were surprised and grew angry, not without an
evident fear resting upon them, and an interesting curio-
sity to hear me again of this matter. I have reason to
judge that almost all of them have been one time or
other awakened more or less, although I fear many of
them have rejected the counsel of God against them-
selves. But, in the mean time, some more sensibly
pricked in their hearts, came to me enquiring what they
must do f The number of these continually increasing,
I thought my utmost diligence was needful towards them.
They were universally ignorant in the grossest degree.
I was glad to give them as many evenings in the week
as I could spare, appointing them to attend me after their
work was over at my house. As there was no knowledge
of divine things among them, and, in consequence there-
of, they were incapable of instructing each other, and
withal, as they were marked out by reproach, and had
every art tried upon them to draw them away, they
needed from me both instruction and cautions, which I
was obliged, for these reasons, to give them, either singly

AT TRURO, IN CORNWALL. 37

two or three together. This I have continued to
:he present time, with no other variation but that
ng the help of those who had made any progress
ch over beginners. I had, from the first, engaged
Frequently to converse together, and pray with one
$r, as I could put them together ; and though the
»ter part of them fell away from their awakenings,
len a number of them seemed to be somewhat con*
, they of their own accord met together in large

in their own houses to read God's word, pray, sing
;, &c. This became pretty much practised about
?ars ago, and herein I have left them to themselves,
iving them directions as need required.
y the grace of God, the number of those whose
3t seemed to express a lively faith began now to
aething considerable, for which reason, about the
end of last summer, it was thought advisable to
them into a religious society, which, after some
, was effected in the beginning of February. The
$r of members is now upwards of seventy."
i editor adds, it was afterwards considerably in-
i.
fhile I was deliberating about this society, which

consist of such only as gave hope of an edifying
le, it was thought proper to call together as many

as were willing in my house once a-week as a
' nursery for the principal society, and, by talking
vying with them, we seem to have found some
shment among those who are weaker,
[lis hath been the progress of the work among our*

wherein I have reason to believe we have been
forwarded by the blessing of the Spirit upon a free
actical exposition of the Church Catechism, which
, after my poor measure, read by word of mouth,
inday evenings of half the year, an hour after

have to add farther, which I doubt not will give
easure, that, not long after the commencement of
rork at Truro, several clergymen of us in the
wurhood associated ourselves, utvtat ta& tosh* «&.

38 RIVTVAL UNDER WALKER

the Parsons' Club, for mutual consultation and direction*
in order to promote the great end of our ministry."

In the formation of his societies Mr Walker followed
the plan laid down by the Rev. Dr Josiah Woodward in
his treatise published in the reign of Queen Anne, en-
titled, " An Account of the Rise and Progress of the
Religious Societies in and about London, and of their
endeavours for the Reformation of Manners."

For his parochial society and clerical club he formed
most judicious rules, some of which indicate his know-
ledge of the deceitful devices by which the conceit of
self-applause, and the deceit of hypocrisy, are both able
to mar a work which in itself seems simply edifying. He
arranged also forms of prayer for their use, selected from
Scripture, the Liturgy, the Whole Duty of Man, and
Jenk's Devotions.

Mr Walker also delivered many occasional sermons
and week-day lectures, which he thought produced the
effect of casting an awe over the minds of the most har-
dened of the people, so that cock-fightings, stage-plays,
&c., against which he bore an open testimony, were pre-
vented. " But his heart was most set on the much
neglected duty of catechizing, in which he passed the
Sabbath evenings of several months in the year to a very
numerous congregation. * * It pleased God that in
the last two years of his ministry a considerable number
of young people were awakened, on which occasion he
set up a private lecture to them in his own room twice
a-week in the evening. This meeting was so crowded
and so hot that his friends evidently saw that his strength
was much impaired, and that his life would be shortened
by it ; yet the undertaking was so charitable a design for
the good of young souls, and he was so intent upon it,
that they did not care to press him to desist from it*
Indeed his compassion to the souls of perishing sinners
seemed to be his shining grace, insomuch that when in
conversation any hard and impenitent sinner was men-
tioned, he seemed to express an inward pungent distress
of soul. * * His room for private advice was daily
frequented, except on Saturdays, which he always reser*

AT TftURO, 1ST COHHWALL, 99

red for himself to prepare for the Sunday, so that from
first to last he thought about a thousand of the inhabi-
tants of the town, besides strangers from the adjacent
parts, had been with him for private advice regarding the
state of their souls. After he became so much engaged
he had little leisure for studying the works of others —
the Bible was then almost the only book he applied him-
self to— from this sacred fountain he drew that deep
and practical knowledge which his charitable heart was
always ready to communicate to others. After it had
pleased God to bless his ministrations at Truro in so
remarkable a manner that the number of people in whom
an appearance of a real change of heart and life was
visible became considerable, he felt that a new and spiri-
tual relation commenced between him and his flock, and
accordingly it became his settled judgment that he ought
not, on any worldly consideration, to leave them, unless
Providence should open to him a more extensive field
of usefulness to the church of Christ, or he should be
removed by superior authority. This may account for
his giving up the vicarage of Falland, to which he was
presented in 1747. Having the Bishop's leave for ab-
sence he held this vicarage for a time, till, growing dis-
satisfied in his conscience concerning the justifiableness
of non-residence, he resigned it, and could never after-
wards be induced to accept of another living, though he
had the offer of four. Yet he went not about this affair
with a precipitate zeal, but with his usual calmness of
judgment and deliberation, and after consulting some
able divines on the subject of pluralities and rum*
residence.

" This circumstance, though often talked of between
him and his friends, was never mentioned without his
expressing at the same time how great a burden he found
himself delivered from when he gave up a charge of
souls whom he had it not in his power to inspect. After
this he was not only content, but even satisfied in his I
low circumstances, though they became reduced beyond I
what might have been reasonably expected ; and when ha \
was no longer able to support the expense oi Was**

I

40 REVIVAL UNDER WALUa

keeping, he went into poor lodgings, where, though his*
hoard and habitation were of the most ordinary kind, jet
as his mind was wholly intent upon spreading the saving
knowledge of the gospel, he lived in peace and calm-
ness." * * *

" In the beginning of November, 1756, three com-
panies of General Anstruther's regiment of soldiers were
sent into winter-quarters in Truro. The zeal of our
pious minister engaged him to set to work to promote
the knowledge and practice of religion among them, and
it pleased God to give a peculiar blessing to his labours
exerted on this occasion "

Mr Walker wrote on this subject thus :— " It is my
way, in writing to my friends, to speak what is most
nearly on my heart, and especially if it be any thing
which I may hope will excite their praises,, and engage
their intercessions on my behalf. Such is the circum-
stance I have to communicate respecting the success of
the Gospel among the soldiers quartered in this town.
I endeavoured to lose no time with them from their first
arrival, but without delay preached a sermon-extraor-
dinary on their account on Sunday afternoon, called by
the people here the Soldiers? Sermon. There was at
first great difficulty to get their attendance to hear it,
for though they were ordered to be at church in the
morning, and brought thither by their officers, yet they
used to turn off at the door. In this point I was helped
by the zeal of my dear people of the society, who made
it their business to speak to these poor creatures, giving
them proper advice, and prevailing on a few of them to
be at church as was wished. They soon became a larger
number; and our labours were so blessed to them and
us, that in less than three weeks a full hundred of them
came to my house, asking ' what they must do ? ' This
was what I aimed at, an opportunity of personal and free
conversation. The effects have been very striking. One
or two of the whole only excepted, you would have seen
their countenances changing, tears often bursting front
their eyes, and confessions of their exceeding sinfulness
md danger breaking from their mouths*. I have scarcely

AT TRURO, IN CORNWALL* 41

such a thing as self-excusing from one of them ;
iheir desire to be instructed, and uncommon thank-
i for the least pains used upon them by any of us,
een very remarkable. Such promising symptoms,
ae great confidence it would come to something,
ore so when I found that many of them were
f stirred up to pray. Many of them, as was to be
ed, soon went back. Nevertheless, thus far, both
ad the others who never came near me in private
inly influenced, so that a certain fear has restrained
rom swearing and cursing, which, when they came

was universally the practice ; has engaged them to

public worship, and at least so far biassed their

t, that military punishments are grown much less

it among them. There are about twenty who have

iose to the means of grace, and concerning whom

encouraging hope that a good work is begun in

Indeed, conviction of sin appears to have gone
ith them, and they are crying after Christ with
narks of godly sorrow, as make me hope it is

a sorrow which worketh repentance unto sal-

hese I intend shall be united together when they
is, under the name of the Soldiers' Society, having
' drawn up regulations for the purpose. While
re here they make a part of our society, by the
«8 of which, as well as by meetings I particularly
t for their use, they seem to be much established,
uch a society of soldiers may produce amongst that
f men, God only knows ; yet I would comfort
with the hope it may please the Lord it shall go
. It may be observed, that some of these, namely,
itchmen and one English dissenter, have enjoyed
lefit of religious knowledge in their youth ; the
ccepting two, I find totally ignorant of every thing
r to Christ ; and this their total ignorance has
ae lament the superficial use or entire neglect of
sing among the English clergy, by which, more
y any other thing, I am persuaded the kingdom
ness and sin is established in EnglMidu" . .^

42 RfcVlVAL UNDER WALKER

The officers of these men waited on Mr Walker to
return thanks for the great obligations he had laid on
them, by taking so much pains with the men, and work-
ing such a reformation among them.

In August 1760, Mr Walker preached what, unex-
pectedly to himself and his people, proved his last ser-
mon. The solemn transactions of the day of judgment
formed his subject, and had he been aware that their
next meeting must be at the awful judgment-seat,
his address could not have been more solemn and appro-
priate. The reader may be glad to see one little specimen
of that preaching which was employed as the instrument
of arousing so many souls from the sleep of sin:-—
" Well ; we shall appear before the judgment-seat of
Christ together. There the controversy between me,
calling upon you by the terrors of the Lord, and you,
determined to abide in your sins, will be decided. There
it will appear whether your blood will be upon your own
heads for your obstinate impenitency, or upon mine for
not giving you warning. Christ will certainly either
acquit or condemn me on this behalf; and if I should be
acquitted herein, what would become of you ? I tremble
to think how so many words of mine will be brought up
against you on that day. What will you say — what will
you answer — how will you excuse yourselves ? O sirs,
if you will not be prevailed upon, you will eternally curse
the day that you knew me, or heard one word from my
mouth. Why — why will you die with so aggravated a
destruction ? O think of the judgment — think of it, and
you will not be able to hold it out against your own souls.
May the Lord incline you to do so ; may he cause this
work to sink deep into your hearts ; may he show you
all your danger ; and with an outstretched arm bring you
out of the hands of the Devil, and translate you into the
glorious kingdom of his dear Son, to his own glory and
your unspeakable happiness, in the day of the appearance
of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Even so, most
mighty God, and most merciful Father, for the same
Jesus Christ's sake." These were the concluding words
of the ministry of this faithful minister of Christ.

AT TRURO, IN CORNWALL. 43

e state of his health occasioned his being removed
istol for a time, and by and by to the neigbbour-
of London, where he expired in July, 1761. His
rata brought him within reach of many pious per-
both of the clergy and laity, who resorted to him
r his protracted illness, to whom his conversations
blessed in a very singular manner ; so that, when
• weakness prevented him from preaching, he was
mental in promoting the glory of God, and the
of many souls, by his remarkable talent in experi-
il and holy conversation.
i hours of languor and death were not marked by

joy, but by a quiet and firm confidence in that
jmer to whom he had invited so many souk.

of course, his memoir and his work break off
ler, and the compiler is left without means of
>r tracing the work of God in the souls at Truro,
rery affecting to observe that the good shepherd is
guently removed, not to make room for another his
in gracious attainments, but as a judgment on the
We do not know if it was so in this case, or if
pirit of God still continued to be poured out upon
>eople ; but this we know, that those of them who,

Mr Walker's ministry, had joined themselves to
x>rd in an everlasting covenant, shall never be
at.

is brief narrative is extracted from a memoir pre*
to an early edition of Mr Walker's sermons.

I

[ ** ]

CHAPTER III.

BERRIDGE, AT EVERTON.

[1754.] The Rev. John Berridge, who was born at
Kingston in 1716, had reached his 39th year before he
came to entertain any clear views of the peculiar doctrines
of the Gospel. He had " lived proudly on faith and
works for salvation/' as he himself stated in the quaint
and characteristic inscription which he prepared for his
own tombstone, till the year 1754 ; and preached, as
might be expected, with no visible effect, at Stapleford,
near Cambridge, for several years. It was not, however,
till three years after his first awakening, that his heart
was fully interested in divine truth. He had then been
for a full year Vicar of Everton, where he began to preach
repentance and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ with fear
and trembling. After he had preached for some time in
his new way, he began to pause and consider whether he
was right, not having seen any particular effects from his
discourses. While ruminating on this subject, however,
one of his parishioners came to enquire for him. When
she was introduced, " Well, Sarah/* said he : she replied,
" Well I — not so well, I fear." — " Why, what is the mat-
ter, Sarah ?" — " I do not know what is the matter; but
by those new sermons, I find we are all to be lost now.
I can neither eat, drink, or sleep — I do not know what
is to become of me." Here is an interesting era in the
life of a bearer of good tidings. The first token of awaken-
ing among his hearers from the death of trespasses and
sins — the first consciousness of want or of holv fear.
With what anxiety must the faithful pastor, who looks
for the work of the Spirit, watch for such a token of
quickening into life. With what fresh courage and zeal
must he go on to repeat his offers of salvation — how

AT EVERTON. 4&

touch more frequent and hopeful will be his prayers !
Mr Berridge was surrounded by those who were not
taught as he was, and from the peculiarity of his opinions
and experience, he might have questioned his understand-
ing of Scripture. But in the same week with poor Sarah
came two or three more, on a like errand, which so con-
firmed him in the truth, that he resolved from that time
to know nothing but Jesus Christ, and him crucified.
Having changed his principles and manner of preaching,
he destroyed his old sermons. All things became new
to him. He was led soon afterwards, by a casual circum-
stance, to venture for the first time to preach extempore.
His stock of new compositions being small, when he was
asked to preach what was termed a club sermon* in his
neighbourhood, and finding that several of his own people
would follow him there, before whom he was reluctant
to repeat a recent discourse, he was drawn to adventure
this unwonted achievement in the presence of many of the
clergy. After struggling with embarrassment in the be-
ginning, he was enabled to overcome it, and spoke with so
much freedom that he was greatly encouraged ; and from
that time felt a liberty and readiness in preaching which
proved of the greatest service to his ministrations in after
life. He was surrounded by a wide district, in which he
perceived that the gospel, as he had now received it, was
neither preached nor understood. He pitied the darkness
which so universally prevailed, and felt constrained to
devote himself to the service of his Divine Master in a
wider field than the bounds of his own parish presented.
He was well aware, not only of the bodily labour which
the functions of an itinerating preacher would entail on
him, but also of the obloquy and persecution which would
attend a practice so contrary to the rules of the Establish-
ed Church. But he was impelled by a sense of duty too
powerful to be controlled by worldly motives ; and, hav-
ing counted the cost, he took his resolution piously,
strenuously, and perseveringly. Wherever he found an
opportunity for spreading the light of the Gospel, he did

* A eermon before a meeting of tta ctargj »

46 BERRIDGE,

not hesitate to present himself; and where churches
were not accessible to him, he addressed his hearers in
dwelling-houses, in barns, or in the open air.

The counties of Cambridge, Essex, Hertford, Bedford,
and Huntingdon, were the principal scenes of his labours,
and in this circuit he preached, on an average, from ten
to twelve sermons a -week, and not unfrequently rode on
horseback a hundred miles. He rented places for wot*
ship, maintained lay preachers, and travelled at his own
expense, — charges which his fortune inherited from his
father, and his income from his preferment, enabled him
to bear. He spent his ample fortune, indeed, in the
service of religion ; and his resources were so exhausted
in his old age, that his friend Mr Komaine preached a
sermon in his behalf, in which he interceded '< for the
support of two preachers and their horses, and several
local preachers, and for the rents of several barns in
which they preached." Those among whom he scattered
the seed of the word where chiefly a poor population of
husbandmen, who lived truly by the sweat of their brow.
This may serve to explain why they were unable to do
much in supporting the gospel among themselves.

This was a method of conveying religious truth which
had been rendered at that period common by the success
of Whitefield and Wesley. It was peculiarly appropriate
to the necessities of England at the time, the parishes
being occupied by beneficed clergymen, many of them
pluralists, who were strangers to evangelical truth. Mr
Venn seems to have been, for a long time, the only en-
lightened pastor within the acquaintance of Berridge, if
we except Mr Hicks of Wrestling worth, his neighbour,
who was among the first fruits of his itinerating la-
bours, and became a very useful man, and a companion
with him in his religious travels. It was not till the
year after he began to itinerate, that Mr Berridge was
led to preach in the open air. He says in a letter,—
" On Monday se'ennight Mr Hicks accompanied me to
Meldred. On the way we called at a farm-house. After
dinner I went into the yard, and seeing near a hundred
and fifty people, I called for a table, and preached for the

AT EVERTON. 47

first time in the open air. We then went to Meldred,
where I preached in a field to about four thousand people.
In the morning at five, Mr Hicks preached in the same
field to about one thousand. Here the presence of the
Lord was wonderfully among us; and I trust, beside
many that were slightly wounded, near thirty received
heartfelt conviction."

It is evident that there must have been a great ex-
citement in the country, when four thousand people were
so easily assembled on the evening of a working day in a
not very populous campaign district, and one thousand
so early as five in the morning. His numerous itiner-
ants went out from him with such apostolic instructions
as these, — " Never preach in working hours, that would
raise a clamour. Where you preach at night, preach
also in the morning ; but be not longer than an hour in
the whole morning service, and conclude before six.
Morning preaching will show whether the evening took
effect, by raising them up early to hear.

" Expect plain fare and plain lodging where you
preach, yet perhaps better than your Master had. Suffer
no treats to be made for you, but live as your host
usually lives, else he may grow weary of entertaining
you ; and go not from house to house. If you dare to
be zealous for the Lord of Hosts, expect persecution and
threats ; but heed them not. Bind the Lord's word to
your heart. The promise is doubled for your encourage-
ment. The chief blocks in your way will be the prudent
Peters, who will beg, entreat, and beseech you to avoid
irregularity. Give them the same answer that Christ
gave Peter, < they savour of the things which be of
men.' — Heed them not.

" When you preach at night, go to bed as soon as
possible, that the family be not kept up, and that you
may rise early. When breakfast and morning family
prayers are over, go away directly, that the house may be
at liberty. If you would do work for the Lord, as you
seem designed, you must venture for the Lord. The
Christian's motto is — Trust and go forwardy though the
sea is before you. Do then as Paul did, give. \ug \fo^&\&

48 BERRIDGE,

to the Lord; work, and confer not with flesh and blood,
and the Lord be with thee."

These instructions, which are copied from a letter to
one of his subordinates, were to regulate their manners ;
and with regard to the matter of their preachings, we
find such as the following : —

" When you state your commission, begin with laying
open the innumerable corruptions of the hearts of your
audience ; Moses will lend you a knife which may be
often whetted at his grindstone. Lay open the universal
sinfulness of nature, — the darkness of the mind, — the
frowardness of the will, — the fretfulness of the temper,
and the eartbliness and sensuality of the affections.
Speak of the evil of sin in its nature — its rebellion
against God as our sovereign — ingratitude to God as our
benefactor — and contempt both of his authority and
love. Declare the evil of sin in its effects — bringing
on all our sickness, pains, and sorrows — all the evils we
feel, and all the evils we fear — all inundations, and fires,
and famines, and pestilences — all brawls, and quarrels,
and fightings, and wars, with death to close these present
sorrows, and hell afterwards to receive all that die in sin.

" Lay open the spirituality of the law, and its ex-
tent, reaching to every thought, word, and action, and
declaring every transgression (whether of omission or
commission) deserving of death. Declare man's utter
helplessness to change his nature, or to make his peace.
Pardon and holiness must come from the Saviour. Ac-
quaint them with the searching eye of God, watching us
continually, spying out every thought, word, and action,
noting them down in the book of his remembrance, and
bringing every secret thing into judgment, whether it be
good or evil.

" When your hearers are deeply affected with these
things (which is seen by the hanging down of their
heads), preach Christ. Lay open the Saviour s almighty
power to soften the hard heart, and give it repentance—*
to bring pardon to the broken heart, a spirit of prayer to
the prayerless heart, holiness to the filthy heart, and
faith to the unbelieving heart. Let them know that all

AT EVERTOtf. 49

the treasures of grace are lodged in Jesus Christ, for the
use of the poor needy sinner, and that he is full of love
as well as power — turns no beggar from his gate, but re-
ceives all comers kindly— loves to bless them, and be-
stows all his blessings tithe-free. Farmers and country
people chop at that. Here you must wave the Gospel
flag, and magnify the Saviour supremely. Speak it, ore
rotundo, that his blood can wash away the foulest sins,
and his grace subdue the stoutest corruptions. Exhort
the people to seek his grace, to seek it directly, seek it
diligently, seek it constantly ; and acquaint them, that
all who thus seek shall assuredly find the salvation of
God." Of his own preaching, it has been said, that
" When he explained the nature, end, and use of the
law, he was very awful and affecting." " And now "
(to adopt his own words) " I dealt with my hearers in
a Tery different manner from what I used to do. I told
them very plainly, that they were the children of wrath,
and under the curse of God, though they knew it not,
and that none but Jesus Christ could deliver them from
that curse. I told them, if they had ever broken the law
of God once in thought, word, or deed, no future good
behaviour could make any atonement for past miscar-
riages. For, if I keep all God's laws to-day, this is no
amends for breaking them yesterday ; if I behave peace-
ably to my neighbour this day, it is no satisfaction for
having broken his head yesterday. So that, if once a
sinner, nothing but the blood of Jesus can cleanse me
from sin."

Jesus was a name on which he dwelt with peculiar
emphasis and delight. With what melting affection
would he extol the bleeding Lamb! How would his
eyes stream when he pointed to His agonizing suffer-
ings ! How would they sparkle when he displayed the
exceeding riches of His grace I And what a reverential
grandeur marked his countenance, when he anticipated
His glorious appearing !

" Nor was he less attentive to the gracious influence
of the Holy Spirit in the application of redemption* No
minister could with more judgment detect. \.Y& Yras&K&

D

50 BERRIDGX,

heart in all its subtle machinations, or with greater ac-
curacy describe progressive religion in the soul. Com*
raunion with God was what he much enforced in the
latter stages of his ministry. It was, indeed, his own
meat and drink, and the banquet from which he never
appeared to rise. ,,

We have taken pains to collect these short notices,
which are all that can be now obtained of his method of
preaching, that those who desire like precious fruits may
go and do likewise.

" As to his usefulness, we learn from more sources of
information than one that he was in the first year visited
by a thousand persons under serious impressions ; and it
has been computed that, under his own and the joint
ministry of Mr Hicks, about four thousand were awaken-
ed to a concern for their souls in the space of twelve
months. Incredible as this history of his success may
appear, it comes authenticated through a channel so
highly respectable, that to refuse our belief would be un-
pardonably illiberal."

« This work was at first accompanied with bodily con-
vulsions and other external effects on some of the
hearers very unaccountable to us ; a circumstance, how-
ever, not altogether unusual when God begins to sound
a general alarm in the consciences of men, as appears
from what took place in New England, Scotland, North
Wales, and other countries. But those effects soon sub-
sided, as did these, and the interests of religion were pro-
moted more quietly and gradually.

«< As his labours were prosperous, so they were op-
posed. It cpuld not be grateful to the prince of darkness
to behold bis kingdom so warmly attacked, and his sub-
jects in such numbers deserting his standard. Hence he
stirred up all his strength, and a furious persecution en-
sued. No opposition was too violent — no names were
too opprobrious — no treatment was too barbarous. Some
of his followers were roughly handled, and their property
destroyed. Gentry, clergy, and magistrates became one
band, and employed every engine to check his progress,
and to prevent him from preaching. The old devil was

AT EVERTOtf. 51

the only name by which he was distinguished among
them between twenty and thirty years. But none of
these things moved him ; he had counted the cost. The
clamours of the multitude had no more effect upon his
mind, in the regular discharge of his duty, than the bark-
ing of the cur has on the moon in her imperial revolu-
tions. Vengeance was not his. The only revenge he
sought was their salvation ; and when they needed any
good office, his hand was the first to render it." *

" He loved the world that hated him ; the tear

He dropt upon hu Bible was sincere.

Assailed by scandal, and the tongue of strife,

His only answer was a blameless life.

And he that forged, and he that threw the dart.

Had each a brother's interest in his heart" — Cowpxr.

He was indeed a man of extraordinary benevolence —
his ear, his heart, his purse were ever open to hear
the tale of pity, to sympathize, and to relieve. On the
Sabbath his congregation was collected from various
parishes, and considerable distances. He had always a
stable or field for their horses, and a cold collation for
strangers. In itinerating, so far from being a burden to
the poor, they were generally gainers by his visits in a
pecuniary way. Besides the expenditure of all his in-
come, even his family plate was melted to support itine-
rant preaching.

Above all his other virtues, he wore the garment of
humility, and his language was remarkable for simplicity
and spirituality, accompanied with a natural vein of wit
and pleasantry. He was himself what he called his
friend Rowland Hill, " a Comet/' In an extensive and
eccentric orbit he was found shining and producing a
lively sensation, then passing away, yet returning again at
his appointed time, with the same brilliancy and the
same impression as before.

To his Bishop it is not wonderful that he should have
been an object of displeasure and annoyance ; for though
his character, both as a man and a Christian, might have

* Life of Berridge. Evan. Mug. \o\, 1.

!

52 . BERRIDGE,

borne the strictest scrutiny, his breach of Church order,
and his encroachment, as it was accounted, on the de-
partments of his brethren, excited the hostility of those
whose indolence and unfaithfulness he thus silently re-
proved ; and notwithstanding tbe prudence with which
he conducted himself, could scarcely escape the censure
of his ecclesiastical superior. The Reverend Mr Sut-
cliffe of Olney has recorded a remarkable and character-
istic conversation with Mr Berridge, which turned on
this subject, and which we feel induced to transcribe
without abridgement.

" AN INTERVIEW WITH THE LATE REV. MR BERRIDGE,
RELATED BY THE REV. MR SUTCLIFFE OF OLNEY.

" About two years ago,* a friend of mine wishing to
enjoy an hour or two of Mr B.'s company, rode over to
Everton for that purpose. He was introduced by a dis-
senting minister in the neighbourhood, with whom Mr
B. lived in terms of friendship. When seated, my friend
requested Mr B., if agreeable, to favour them with a few
outlines of his life. The venerable old man began and
related several things as narrated in the first number of
the Evangelical Magazine. But as some are tbere un-
noticed, I select the following, which I think will not be
uninteresting : —

" ' Soon alter I began,' he said, * to preach the Gospel
of Christ at Everton, the church was filled from the
villages around us, and the neighbouring clergy felt
themselves hurt at tbeir churches being deserted. The
squire of my own parish was likewise much offended.
He did not like to see so many strangers, and to be so
incommoded. Between them both, it was resolved, if pos-
sible, to turn me out of my living. For this purpose they
complained of me to the bishop of the diocese that I had
preached out of my own parish. I was soon after sent for
by the bishop ; I did not much like my errand, but I went*

" i When I arrived, the bishop accosted me in a very

* This was first printed in the year 1794.

AT EVERTON. 53

abrupt manner : " Well, Berridge, they tell me yon go
about preaching out of your own parish. Did I institute

you to the livings of A y, or E n, or P n ? "

« No, my lord," said I, " neither do I claim any of those
brings ; the clergymen enjoy them undisturbed by me."
" Well, but you go and preach there, which you have no
right to do." " It is true, my lord, I was one day at

E n, and there were a few poor people assembled

together, and I admonished them to repent of their sins,
and to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ for the salvation
of their souls ; and I remember seeing five or six cler-
gymen that day, my lord, all out of their own parishes,

upon E n bowling green." " Poh !" said his lordship,

u I tell you, you have no right to preach out of your own
parish ; and if you do not desist from it, you will very
likely be sent to Huntingdon gaol." " As to that, my
lord," said I, «« I have no greater liking to Huntingdon
gaol than other people, but I had rather go there with a
good <M>nscience, than live at liberty without it." Here
his lordship looked very hard at me, and very gravely
assured me that I was beside myself, and that in a few
months time I should be either better or worse. " Then,"
said I, " my lord, you may make yourself quite happy in
this business ; for if I should be better, you suppose I
shall desist from this practice of my own accord, and
if worse, you need not send' me to Huntingdon gaol, as
I shall be provided with an accommodation in bedlam."

" ' His lordship now changed his mode of attack.
Instead of threatening, he began to entreat. " Berridge,"
said he, " you know I have been your friend, and I would
wish to be so still. I am continually teased with the
complaints of the clergymen around you. Only assure
me that you will keep to your own parish ; you may do
as you please there. I have but little time to live ; do
not bring down my grey hairs with sorrow to the grave."
At this instant two gentlemen were announced, who
desired to speak with his lordship. "Berridge," said he,
" go to your inn, and come again at such an hour and
dine with me." I went, and on entering a private room
fell immediate]/ upon my knees. I co\i\&\&TO>tarc&3fe-

54'. BERRIDGE, ■

ing, but knew not bow to withstand entreaty, especially,
tbe entreaty of a respectable old man. At the appointed
time I returned. At dinner I was treated with great
respect. Tbe two gentlemen also dined with us. I found
tbey had been informed who I was, as they sometimes
cast their eyes upon me in some such a manner as one-
would glance at a monster. After dinner, his lordship
took me into his garden. " Well, Berridge," said he,
" have you considered my request ?" " I have, my lord,"
said I, " and have been on my knees concerning it."
<< Well ; and will you promise that you will preach no.
more out of your own parish ?* "It would afford me
great pleasure," said I, " to comply with your lordship's
request, if I could do it with a good conscience. I am*
satisfied the Lord has blessed my labours of this kind,
and I dare not desist." " A good conscience !" said his
lordship ; " do you not know that it is contrary to the
canons of the Church ?" " There is one canon, my lord,"
replied I, " which says, Go preach the Gospel to every
creature." " But why should you wish to interfere
with the charges of other men ? One man cannot preach
the Gospel to all men." " If they would preach the
Gospel themselves," said I, " there would be no need for
my preaching to their people; but as they do not, I
cannot desist." His lordship then parted with me in
some displeasure. I returned home, not knowing what
was to befal me, but thankful to God that I had pre-
served a conscience void of offence.

" ' I took no measures for my own safety, but Divine
Providence wrought for me in a way that I never ex-
pected. When I was at Clare- hall I was particularly
acquainted with a Fellow of that college, and we were
both on intimate terms with Mr Pitt, the late Lord
Chatham, who was at that time also at the University.

" < This Fellow of Clare- hall, when I began to preach
the Gospel, became my enemy, and did me some injury
in some ecclesiastical privileges which beforetime I had
enjoyed. At length, however, when he heard that I was
likely to come into trouble, and to be turned out of my
hying pi Everton, his heart relented. He began to

At BVERTON. 55

think, it seems, within himself, we shall ruin this poor
fellow among- us. This was just about the time that I
was sent for by the bishop. Of his own accord he writes
a letter to Mr Pitt, saying- nothing about my Methodism,
bat to this effect : — " Our old friend Berridge has got a
living in Bedfordshire, and I understand he has a squire
in his parish who gives him a deal of trouble ; has
accused him to the bishop of the diocese, and it is said
will turn him out of the living ; I wish you could con-
trive to put a stop to these proceedings.' 1 Mr Pitt was
at that time a young man, and not choosing to apply to
the bishop himself, spoke to a certain nobleman, to
whom the bishop was indebted for his promotion. This
nobleman, within a few days, made it his business to see
the bishop, who was then in London. " My lord/' said
he, " I am informed you have a very honest fellow, one
Berridge, in your diocese, and that he has been ill-treated
by a litigious squire who lives in his parish. He has
accused him, I am told, to your lordship, and wants to
turn him out of his living. You would oblige me, my
lord, if you would take no notice of that squire, and not
suffer the honest man to be interrupted in his living."
The bishop was astonished, and could not imagine in
what manner things could have thus got round. It
would not do, however, to object ; he was obliged to bow
compliance, and so 1 continued ever after in my sphere
of action.'

" After this interesting narration was ended, which
bad alternately drawn smiles and tears from my friend
and his companion, they requested him to pray with
them one five minutes before they departed. ' No/ said
the good old man to my friend, * you shall pray with me.'
' Well ; but if I begin, perhaps you will conclude.' He
consented ; after my friend had ended, he, without rising
from his knees, took up his petitions; and with such sweet
solemnity, such holy familiarity with God, and such
ardent love to Christ, poured out his soul, that the like
was seldom seen. They parted ; and my friend thinks
^e will never forget the favour of the interview to his
djingday/'

56 BERRIDGE,

It is impossible not to regret that so little has been
left on record of the life and successful ministrations of
this holy man ; and this regret is increased by the recent
publication of the life of the Reverend Henry Venn, in
which we find some detached notices of his character, at
once interesting in themselves, and indicative of the
spiritual intercourse and pious sentiments of these worthy
individuals. It is but a passing glimpse which we thug
receive of a great outpouring of the Holy Spirit, with
which it would be both delightful and edifying to be
made familiar. With what we have been able to glean
from the work alluded to, this account must close.

[Nov. 11, 1771.] " Last Wednesday Mr Berridge
was here, and gave us a most excellent sermon. He is
a blessed man — a true Calvinist; not hot in doctrine,
nor wise above what is written, but practical and experi-
mental. Summer differs not more from winter than this
dear man from what he was ten years ago ; he is now
broken in heart, though fervent in spirit/' Again, he
says —

[1773, Dec.] " Dear Mr Berridge preaches for me
every month. Happy am I in having such a loving
fervent minister of Christ." Again —

[1776.] " Mr Berridge is in London. He laboured
for three months above his strength ; he had the largest
congregations that were ever known for a constancy ;
and greatly was his word owned of the Lord. He is aa
affectionate as a father to my son, and gives him many
valuable books. He is often telling me he is sick of all
he does, and loathes himself for the inexpressible corrup-
tion he feels within ; yet is his life a pattern to us all, and an
incitement to love and serve the Lord with all our strength.
Thus did my affectionate brother resemble that burning
and shining light, who cried out, ' I have need to be
baptized of thee !' Thus I find it with him. Twenty-five
years ago, I was certain I should be able to reconcile
the word of God with all its parts, and be able to pray
without distraction. Now I wait for the light of eter-
nity, and the perfection of holiness, in order that I may
know any thing as I ought to know."

AT EVERTON. 57

[1783.] We find the same excellent man rejoicing in
Christian fellowship with his brethren, and give a brief
extract, to show what are the enjoyments of those who
possess the Revival spirit. " I wished for your presence
with us on New-year s day. Princes hare no such fare
to feast on ! Mr Robinson, from Leicester, was in the
pulpit in the evening ; and in a manner, masterly, solemn
and affectionate to the last degree, he exhorted young
men and maidens, old men and children, believers and
unbelievers, to awake out of sleep, for it was high time.
Many attended, and great was the seriousness of one and
all. Mr Simeon, and Mr Farish from Cambridge, were
hare ; and we all set out for Everton the next morning.
The venerable father Berridge received us, though un-
locked for, with open arms ; and his prayer, and Mr
Robinson's, were again most edifying and animating.
We parted in fervent love, looking upward and forward,
till we shall meet to dwell together in love for ever.
Such is our present honour, to be with the excellent of
the earth, educating together for glory in' the highest
heavens."

[1788.] Five years after, we find these faithful men
meeting, and comparing the Lord's dealings with them
when they are old and grey-headed.

" The Sunday before last, I preached in the afternoon
at Everton ; my brother Berridge in the morning. Four
years have passed since we heard each other. We both
perceived how our voices are weakened ; but had a sweet
interview while we talked of the pity and tender love of
our adorable Master towards all his aged ministers when
they are almost past the service of their office. He told
me he could pray little out of his own mind ; but the
method he used was to read his Bible, and as he read, to
turn the word into prayer for himself."

[1792. J We present another glimpse of the sunset
of that glorious soul.

" I lately visited my dear brother Berridge. His
sight is very dim, his ears can scarcely hear, and his fa-
culties are last decaying, so that if he continues any
time, he may outlive the use of them. B\ft In XYflfc ttoxl

58 B EH RIDGE,

of his earthly tabernacle, it is surprising to see the joy
of his countenance, and the lively hope with which he
looks for the day of his dissolution. In his prayer with
me and my children (for two of them accompanied me),
we were much affected by his commending himself to the
Lord, as quite alone, not able to read, or hear, or do any
thing, * But if I have, Lord,' said he, * thy presence
and love, that sufficeth ! ' "

[1793.] In January we hear from Mr Venn : — " My
dear brother Berridge is dying, as a letter received last
night informs me ; and, at the same time, how supremely
happy he is in his God and Saviour. He goes a little
before us — we shall very soon follow after." February
14, Mr Venn writes to his family : — " I gladly embrace
an opportunity to send you an account of the last days
of my dear brother at Everton, who was most affection-
ate towards all my dear children ; and his regard for me
was very great indeed. His departure is to me a loss
unspeakable, and not to be repaired. The country will
appear very dreary, now I have no friend there to whom
I can unbosom my soul, as he was wont to do to me.
You know that I had promised to preach his funeral
sermon. My weakness of body and of mind prevent me
fulfilling that promise ; and I was, much against my in-
clination, obliged to refuse the application from Everton,
to perform the last office for this eminent man of God.
After increasing weakness, he was, on the 12th of Ja-
nuary, seized with a violent asthma, in which his friends
'thought he would have died. He recovered, however,
and lived ten davs, unspeakably favoured with the pre-
sence and love of his adorable Redeemer, often express-
ing his full assurance of being with him for ever. Mr
and Mrs Whittingham, Mr Ellard, and Mr Hewitt, were
with him when he departed without a struggle or a groan.
His funeral was very solemn. Six clergymen bore the
pall. Mr Simeon preached from the very words I wished
him to do ; and showed how truly Mr Berridge might say
with Paul, ii. Tim. 7, 8, * I have fought a good fight, I
have finished my course, I have kept the faith ; hence-
forth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness,

AT EVERTON. 59

h the Lord the righteous judge shall give me at
day ; and not to me only, but unto all them also
love His appearing.' The church could not contain
; than half the multitude who came to the burial of
' beloved pastor. Nor is it easy to conceive what

and sighs were to be seen and heard from those who
>een called to Christ through the word of the dear
ised. He is gone a very little before me. May I
ntly wait till I meet him above ! — an event which I

is not far off ! "

s Berridge was never married, he left no widow to
>re his removal, nor children to perpetuate his me-
'; but his bright example, and wise instructions,
for ever live in the affections of thousands who de-
. blessings through his ministry.

EPITAPH.

Here lie

The earthly remains of

JOHN BERRIDGE,

Late Vicar of Everton,

And an itinerant Servant of Jesus Christ,

Who loved his Master and his Work ;

And, after running on his errands many years,

Was caught up to wait on him above.

Reader 1

Art thou born again ?

No salvation without a new birth.

I was born in sin, February, 1716 ;

Remained ignorant of my fallen state till 1730 ;

Lived proudly on faith and works for

salvation, till 1 754 ;

Admitted to Everton vicarage 1755 ;

Fled to Jesus alone for refuge 1756;

Fell asleep in Christ, January 22d, 1793.

I

[ 60 ]

CHAPTER IV.

REVIVAL UNDER GRIMSHAW, AT HA WORTH,

YORKSHIRE.

Mr Grimshaw was born at Brindle, near Preston, in
Lancashire, on the 3d of September, 1708, and educated
at the grammar-schools of Blackburn and Hetlim, in
that county. He was admitted to Christ's College, Cam-
bridge, in his eighteenth year, where his intention was
to study for the church ; but the pursuits he followed,
and the manners of those with whom he associated, were
very unfavourable to such a design, and he soon became
a proficient in wickedness. Mr Grimshaw was ordained
deacon in the year 1731. Upon this occasion he was
not without some serious thoughts concerning the weight
of the ministerial office, but they were of short continu-
ance, and produced little effect. He removed to Tod-
morden soon afterwards, from Rochdale, where he had
for some time associated with a few religious persons.
Being thus separated from them, his pious resolutions
quickly passed away, and he retained just a sufficient re-
gard for his character to restrain him from swearing. and
excess of drinking, when in company who disliked those
practices. Thus he went on till the twenty-eighth year of
his age (1734), when the spirit of God wrought a great
change in him. He became alarmed for the salvation of
his soul, and prayed much ; but he waited long before he
experienced that peace of mind which is the effect of
lively faith in the Saviour. He was no longer a trifler.
He had now neither time nor taste for amusements ; he
attended diligently to his duties, warned his people to
flee from the wrath to come, and catechised their chil-
dren. But, from the painful state of his own mind, it
was some time before he felt himself able experimentally

AT HA WORTH. 61

to invite the weary and heavy laden to apply to Jesus,
that they might find rest for their souls. He laboured,
lie fasted, he prayed, he aimed at great strictness and
regularity of conduct. Yet he was almost driven to
despair by new discoveries of the evils of his heart, and
by a torrent of wicked and blasphemous thoughts. The
Lord often causes those whom he designs to honour with
eminent usefulness in the ministry, to pass through deep
waters of soul distress, that they may, through humility
and watchfulness, acquire the ability to speak a word in
season to the weary. He continued praying earnestly
for some years in the midst of all his discouragements,
and in due time his prayers were answered. His progress
for a time was slow, till at length the sun of righteous-
ness arose with healing under his beams.

Then he gladly renounced all dependence upon him-
self either for righteousness or strength. He believed and
was made whole. As the season of his consolation ap-
proached, his preaching became more savoury, experi-
mental, and successful. How remarkably is the power
of the Holy Spirit of God shown in such a case as that
of Mr Grimshaw, when the views and habits of life are
changed at once, so that he who was vicious yesterday
becomes serious and prayerful to-day, the outward cir-
cumstances remaining the same !

In the year 1742 he was removed to the perpetual
curacy of Haworth, near Bradford, in Yorkshire, to
preach to a people, who, when he first went among
them, were very ignorant, brutish, and wicked. But
very soon, by the blessing of God upon his ministry, this
wilderness assumed the appearance of a fruitful field, and
the desert rejoiced and blossomed like the rose.

Mr Williams of Kidderminster, who bad learnt many
particulars of the distressing part of his experience from
himself, wrote a letter on the subject of his conversion,
dated in 1745, which was afterwards published in the
second volume of the Evangelical Magazine. In this
letter, having stated that after Mr Grimshaw had been
eleven years in the charge of souls, he for the first time

62 GRIMSHAW,

came under terrifying convictions of his sinfulness and
danger, he proceeds thus : —

" Hereupon, being ignorant of God's righteousness, he
went about to establish his own, reformed in every branch
and in every relation, said many prayers (but all in his
own strength), and resolving to leave nothing undone he
could possibly do, he kept two diaries. In one of these,
after daily self-examination, he recorded all the sins of
every day ; then confessed, renewed his repentance,
begged pardon, resolved, watched, and prayed against
them. Still he was conscious of many sins he had taken
no cognizance of, was buffeted with most horrid tempta-
tions. * * * * Fifteen months he groaned under the
spirit of bondage, and found, notwithstanding all his labo-
rious endeavours, he got no ground of his lusts or temp-
tations. Life became a burden, and he was sometimes
tempted to take it away. At last, the time of his deli-
verance came. He met with Owen on Justification in the
house of a friend, borrowed, studied it, and thus was led
into God's method of justifying the ungodly. He had
a new heart given him, and now behold he prayeth."

Mr Williams goes on to relate some particulars of a
very remarkable incident which occurred to Mr Grim-
shaw in 1744, and to which he himself alluded many
years afterwards, in a solemn and renewed dedication of
himself to the Lord's service ; * but as the judicious Mr
Newton evidently discredits some of the circumstances
mentioned by Mr Williams, we forbear to record them,
and shall merely state that Mr Grimshaw himself speaks
of it as " that wonderful manifestation " of the Lord to
him, which took place at church, and in the clerk's house ;
and Mr Newton refers to the testimony of an old servant
who was present on the occasion, and who stated that her
master had risen that morning before five o'clock, and
had been much engaged in private prayer and in religious

* Mr Grimshaw made frequent dedications of himself to God. He
wrote one on 4th December, 1752, which is that alluded to in the text,
and on 5th June, 1760, he renewed it, and wrote upon it, ** I pur-
pose to renew this dedication with a quarterly fast.**

At HAWORTft. 63

exercises with some of his people ; that he had gone to
church, as she believed, without breaking his fast ; that
while reading the second lesson he fell down, and was
carried into the clerk's bouse, where he lay for some time
seemingly insensible, with great coldness in his limbs ;
that when he came to himself he appeared to be in great
rapture, and exclaimed, " I have had a glorious vision
from the third heaven ;" and that, having, while leaving
the church, entreated the people not to dismiss, he en-
tered the pulpit again at two o'clock in the afternoon,
and continued the service so long that it was seven in the
evening before he returned home.

Mr Newton adds, that although he was on terms of
personal intimacy with Mr Grimshaw, and had long and
interesting conversations with him, he never heard him
mention the subject ; and Mr Williams says that he did
not divulge the circumstance to every body, but only to
those who, he thought, had ears to hear.

Mr Williams then continues : " Since that he has never
lost sight of his evidences, has a flowing love to the Lord
Jesus Christ, and his ministry has been attended with
a wonderful success. He reckons, at least, one hundred
and twenty souls savingly renewed, whom he has formed
into little classes. Over each class presides one man,
who has the gift of prayer, whose business it is to con-
verse as well as pray with the others, and watch over
them ; and now and then be meets with these heads, who
give him an account of the individuals. Such a diversity
has there been in the manner of the spirit's operation,
that scarce any two of them all have been wrought upon
in the same manner. Some have cried out in the church,
under overwhelming fears and terrors ; while others have
been drawn with cords of love. Some have received a
sense of pardon in a few days or weeks, while others have
groaned several months under a spirit of bondage. He
has about four hundred families in his parish, of which
he visits ten or twelve every week in a ministerial way,
at the same time that, with the help of an usher, he pre-
sides over a numerous school. He has generally one
thousand or eleven hundred hearers* In &u,mmeT %W&

64 GRIM8HAW,

one hundred flock to his ministry from neighbouring
parishes, and scarce a Sabbath in which one or another is
not laid hold on."

This letter was written about sixy years after Mr
Grimshaw began to preach the gospel faithfully. He
lived to reap a much more abundant harvest, as we shall
see by returning to the narrative of Mr Newton.

The people of Haworth had not been used to faithful
preaching before Mr Grimshaw's time, and, as under such
a privation is always the case, many had become careless
about attending public worship at all. But the tenour
and energy of Mr Grimshaw's preaching soon attracted
the attention of his hearers. His heart was engaged,
he was pressed in spirit, he spoke with earnestness and
authority, as one who was well assured of the truth and
importance of his message. Nor did he long speak in
vain. A power from on high applied to the heart what
he could only declare to the ear. The effects were soon
visible upon many of his hearers, who not only changed
their views and sentiments, but their tempers and con-
duct. Many forsook sinful and vicious habits, and be-
came sober, industrious, and prayerful. Mr Grimshaw
was constantly labouring in his parish, going and decla-
ring the gospel to those who either could not or would
not come to him. He often exhorted in private houses,
where people collected to hear him both from his own
and neighbouring parishes ; and being frequently request-
ed to go beyond the limits of his own parish, and not
daring to refuse, he gradually extended his range till he
had established two circuits, one of which he went over
every week. In the one week, which he used to call
his idle week, he preached commonly twelve or fourteen
times, and in his busy one he preached above twenty,
and sometimes even thirty times. His church was
crowded with hearers from distant places, who attended
without regard to the weather. His sermons were very
long, sometimes not less than two hours, but they were
usually so animated, pertinent, and pathetic, that few
persons who had spiritual discernment and the command
of their time thought them too long. He preached with

AT HAWORTH. 65

the impression that he was addressing perishing sinners
who might never live to hear him again, and he knew
not how to be explicit enough, or how to stop. His
congregation often consisted of many thousands, espe-
cially when Mr Wesley or Mr Whitfield was with them ;
on these occasions his communicants were more than the
church could hold.

While this zealous servant of God was preaching he
riveted attention by the earnestness of his manner and
the weight of his exhortations. All eyes were commonly
fixed on him, and not unfrequently the whole congrega-
tion were in tears.

But it was not in his public ministrations alone that
the power of his talents and piety was felt. Some re-
markable proofs are recorded of the hold which he had
obtained by the strength of his Christian character on
the minds of his parishioners, and it has been said that
his presence had more effect in maintaining order and
decorum, and in suppressing vice, than could have been
produced by a whole host of justices and civil officers.
The manner in which he exercised the commanding in-
fluence he had acquired was characteristic and sometimes
eccentric* It was his frequent custom to leave the church
while the psalm before sermon was singing, to see if any
were idling their time in the churchyard, the street, or
the alehouses, and many of those whom he found he
would drive into the church before him. Mr Newton
mentions an amusing instance of the dread with which
he inspired transgressors. " A friend of mine," says he,
" passing a public-house in Haworth, on a Lord's Day
morning, saw several persons making their escape out of
it, some jumping out at the lower windows, and some
over a low wall. He was at first alarmed, fearing the
house was on fire ; but on enquiring what was the cause
of the commotion, he was told that they saw the parson
coming. His reproofs were so authoritative, yet so
mild and friendly, that the stoutest sinners could not
stand before him."

Mr Newton records another instance of a similar kind,
which shows still more impressively the as>cettvk\w\ vvo.

£

66 GRIMSHAW,

had acquired over his parishioners, and the peculiar man-
ner in which he exercised it. There was a spot at some
distance from the village to which many young people
continued to resort on the Sabbath for their amusement.
Having often reproved them in vain for this unhallowed
practice, he at last disguised himself one evening, and
appeared unexpectedly among them, when he took down
their names with his pencil, and ordered them to attend
him on a day and hour which he appointed. They
punctually obeyed his summons, and after kneeling down
with them, and praying for them with much earnestness,
he dismissed them with a close and affecting lecture. He
thus entirely broke the custom, which was never after-
wards resumed.

Sometimes he had recourse to other and less dignified
means of influencing the minds of his parishioners.
Having an intimate knowledge of the spiritual state of
almost all his flock, he was fertile in expedients for
reaching their consciences. For example, to one pro-
fessor, whose charity to the poor he had reason to doubt,
he went disguised as a beggar, and, on asking for a night's
lodging, was driven away with abusive language— he
cautiously approached another, an old half-blind woman,
whose Christian temper he wished to try, and, placing
himself behind her back, he continued touching her with
his stick until she, supposing it was one of the children
of the village, began to scold and swear. On such occa-
sions he found an opportunity of addressing to them, with
more than ordinary effect, those powerful and energetic
exhortations which were so well calculated to reach their
hearts. These may be regarded as eccentricities, and cer-
tainly cannot be proposed for imitation ; but accompa-
nied, as they were in him, with unaffected piety and a
parental regard for the spiritual welfare of his people, they
were not only tolerated, but even tended to increase his
influence. Another proof is given of the extent of this
influence in a slight incident which happened to a travel-
ler, whose horse had happened to lose a shoe when passing
through Haworth on a Sabbath day. He applied to a
blacksmith, who positively refused to replace the shoe

AT HA WORTH. 67

at the minister's leave. Mr Grimshaw was there-
pplied to, who finding on enquiry that the man was
on an errand of necessity, gave permission to the
entious tradesman to do what was required of him.
e extraordinary energy and deep-rooted piety of
rimshaw's mind are further illustrated by referring
daily habits. He had a meeting for prayer and
tation every morning when he was at home, in sum-
t five o'clock, and in winter at six, choosing these
hours that the labours of the industrious might not
peded. Night and day were the same to him when
s desired to visit the sick ; he has been known to
several miles in the night on this errand of piety in
s of snow, when few people would venture out of
The exertions, indeed, of the most industrious
EL trade, for his own worldly profit, could not exceed
promoting the cause of God, and the practice of
tian duty. In all the actions of common life, in his
familiar and common conversations, he intermingled
>irit of his Lord and Master ; and, like this divine
•n, would instruct hjs friends and hearers, by im-
)g the most ordinary incidents, and teaching them
is for eternity from the sea, the earth, and the sky,
passing events in public and private life, from the
» of the forest, the birds of the air, and the flowers of
sld. His tender and anxious regard for the spiritual
re of his flock was evinced on one occasion in a very
ng manner. The late Mr Whitfield, in a sermon he
led at Haworth, having spoken severely of those
wore who by their loose and evil conduct caused the
of truth to be evil spoken of, intimated a hope that
i not necessary to enlarge on that topic to the con-
tion before him, who had so long enjoyed the bene-
an able and faithful preacher, and he was willing to
e that their profiting appeared unto all men. This
i Mr Grimshaw's solicitude, and, notwithstanding
■eat regard for the preacher, he stood up and inter-
i him, exclaiming with much emotion, " O sir, for
i sake, do not speak so ; I pray you do not flatter

$S . GRIMSHAW,

them. I fear the greater part of them are going to hell
with their eyes open."

It will not be known till the great day how many per-
sons received their first religious impressions from casual
interviews with this man of God, who embraced every
opportunity of conversing on spiritual subjects with those
whom he met on the road. If they were disposed to listen)
he would alight from his horse, and address them with
aerieus and pathetic exhortations, commend them to the
blessing of the Lord by prayer, and then resume his
journey.
- It has already been remarked that Mr Grimshaw did
not confine his ministerial duties to his own parish, and
when, we observe the minute attention he paid to his own
particular charge, and his unremitted labours abroad, it
seems astonishing that any one individual could accomr
plish so much. But he was exceedingly parsimonious of
his time, and prudent in his arrangements. He had good
health, a strong body, and a vigorous mind, and the seve-
rest weather made no alteration in his plans. He was
sure to be where and at the time he was expected. He
was so beloved, and so useful, that many people were not
prevented from coming ten or twelve miles, when they
heard he was to preach. He seldom staid longer in a
place than to deliver his message ; and, that he might
not be burdensome to the house that received him, and
to avoid loss of time, he frequently took some refresh-
ment in his hand, and posted away to farther services. .

Mr Grimshaw's disposition was tried, and manifested
by the defection of many of his people, who, though
awakened under his ministry, withdrew from him, and
became dissenters. The occasion of this does not dis-
tinctly appear. No memoir of Mr Grimshaw's ministry
having been written till thirty-five years after its close,
few particulars have been preserved ; but it is probable
that the excitement produced by the itinerating labours of
Whitfield and Wesley about that time unsettled and drew
off many persons, who learned to estimate evangelical
preaching by his instrumentality, and did not find it in

AT HAWORTH. 69

their parish churches. However trying to his feelings
their withdrawing from his ministry may be supposed to
hare been, yet if he had reason to believe that, though
they departed from him, they •' cleaved to the Lord with
purpose of heart," and walked in the path of truth and
holiness, their change seemed not in the least to abate his
regard for them. He saluted them with the same kind-
ness when he met them, and received them at his house
with the same cordiality as formerly. If good was done,
ne cared not who was the instrument, and his unaffected
humility led him to hope that the ministers they preferred
to him were more useful to them than he could himself
have been.

Some idea of the extent of Mr Grimshaw's usefulness
may be conceived, from the account which Mr Newton
mentions having received from that worthy and simple-
hearted man of the change that had taken place in the
moral and religious aspect of the country around him in
the course of his ministry. One day when Mr Newton
and he were standing together upon a hill near Haworth,
and admiring the romantic prospect, Mr Grimshaw gave
vent to the grateful emotions which swelled his heart in
the following observations.

" When I first came into this country, if I had gone
half a day's journey on horseback towards the east, west,
north, and south, I could not have met with one truly
serious person; and now, through the blessing of God
upon the poor services of one of the most unworthy of
his ministers, besides a considerable number whom I have
seen or known to have departed this life, like Simeon, re-
joicing in the Lord's salvation, and besides five dissenting
churches or congregations, of which the ministers, and
nearly every one of the members, were first awakened
under my ministry, I have still at my sacraments, accord-
ing to the weather, from three to five hundred communi-
cants, of the far greater part of whom, so far as man, who
cannot see the heart, and can therefore only determine
by appearances, profession, and conduct, may judge, I can
give almost as particular an account as I can of myself. I

70 GRIMSHAW.

know the state of their progress in religion ; by my fre-
quent visits and converse with them I am acquainted with
their several temptations, trials, and exercises, both per-
sonal and domestic, both spiritual and temporal, almost as
intimately as if I bad lived in their families."

" A stranger," adds Mr Newton, in giving this account,
" who had stood upon the same spot, from whence he
could see little but barren mountains and moors, would
scarcely think this declaration credible. But I know the
man well, and of all the men I ever knew, I can think of
no one who was less to be suspected of boasting than Mr
Grimshaw."

This zealous and courageous servant of God was seized
with fever, having' caught the infection in visiting some
of his people while labouring under that disease. After
several days of severe suffering in his body, during which
his soul was so sustained that he fervently said, u Never
have I had such a visit from God since I knew him," he
was. admitted into the presence of the Lord whom he loved
and trusted, in the month of August, 1763, in the 55th
year of his age, and twenty-one years after his settlement
at Haworth.

C 71 ]

CHAPTER V.

REFLECTIONS.

It is particularly worthy of observation, that these
hst named eminent Christians and successful ministers,
Berridge and Grimshaw, were contemporaries of Whit-
field and Wesley, and ultimately became acquainted with
them, and received occasional assistance from them. But
it is an utter mistake that either of them derived their
religious opinions from, or adopted their plans of opera-
tion in imitation of these celebrated individuals, who,
though they were not the first, may be termed. the Arch-
itinerants*

Berridge's powerful mind had struggled eleven long
years in laborious efforts to establish his own righteous-
ness, before he became aware that it is in the Lord Jesus
alone that a sinner can have righteousness and strength ;
and then, without communicating with flesh and blood,
he began to proclaim what he had learnt of the Spirit, and
an abundant harvest was given to him.

Grimshaw, a few years previous to that period, had
encountered, while he was " going about to establish
his own righteousness," and to make himself clean in
God's sight, a most fearful furnace of temptation. He
had truly experienced, that " out of the heart proceed
evil thoughts and blasphemies," so that he abhorred
himself, and feared continually ; till he was guided into
peace by learning the way of justification. He also
preached what he had been taught of the Spirit, and his
work was owned abundantly of the head of the Church.
That both these men were constitutionally of a remark-
ably energetic temperament, and would have been ob-
served as eccentric, whatever their professions had been, i
is very obvious. That the world should have hated
them was to be expected, for it hated the blessed Lord,
whose messages of peace they carried ; au<i OT3&. We

(

72 REFLECTIONS.

Southey, who has not been able to restrain himself by
a regard to the dignity and candour incumbent on a
historian, from emitting scornful expressions against
these good men* — even Southey is constrained to con-
fess, that " mad Grimshaw's oddities did not prevent
him from being very useful among a set of parishioners,
who are said to have been as wild as the bleak barren
country which they inhabited, and to hare had little
more religion than their cattle.'* f *

Berridge and Hicks were not " converted to Metho-
dism," as Dr Southey states it, but to the doctrines of
repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, and to the expec-
tation of the teaching of the Holy Spirit, years before
they became acquainted with the Father of Methodism ;
And it may truly be subject of wonder, that one spirit,
shut up in its own clay tabernacle, should feel so assured
of its having attained all experience of how other spirits
may be dealt with, or what may be revealed to them by
the Divine Spirit, as to set down at once, that a man of
prayer and of deep spiritual experience " mistook delu-
sion for reality," because consolation was poured into
his long wounded soul, by a method unexperienced by
the historian. " Why herein is a marvellous thing;
that ye know not from whence he is, and yet he hatb
opened mine eyes ! " It may probably be true, that there
was much of mere human sympathy, or imitations — the
eye affecting the heart — in the strong emotions evinced
at first by the multitudes who flocked to hear Mr Ber-
ridge. There might also be some who received the
word with joy for a while, but who, having no depth in
themselves, anon withered away. Nay, there might be
a few who, from mere caprice or from interested mo-
tives, simulated convictions, fears, and hopes which they

* Southey, in reference to Berridge and Grimshaw, speaks of " the
violent influenza of fanaticism M with which they were infected, and
aays, that " success made Berridge glorious in his own eyes aa well
as those of the fanatics around him ; " that ** he mistook delirium
for reality," and allows himself to employ other opprobrious expret*
sions equally false and calumnious.

f Southey's Life of Wesley, vol. ii. p. $97.

REFLECTIONS. 73

never felt ; but he must be a man wise in his own eyes,
indeed, who will presume to deny, that, of the thousands
awakened under the preaching of Berridge and Hicks,
both before they had ever seen John Wesley, and after
he had come to witness the great work at and around
Everton, none were truly, under the influences of the
Holy Spirit, made new creatures. The brevity of the
gospel narrative does not indulge us with a minute de-
tail of the conduct of the multitude on that blessed day,
when, under the preaching of Peter, there were added to
the Church about three thousand souls ; but when they
were " pricked in their hearts " they spoke during the
service to the preacher and to the other apostles, saying,
'* men and brethren what shall we do ? " We are not
informed that in that vast assembly some stood, some
eat, some wept, some groaned, some wrung their hands
in an ecstasy of grief and fear, and cried out, '* what shall
we do ? " Nay, that some falling down on their faces
worshipped God, as was sometimes the case at Everton.
Yet we cannot suppose three thousand beings of human
mould simultaneously convicted of past sins and mistakes,
and embracing the newly revealed redemption, to con-
tinue all calm and tranquil and still under so powerful
an excitement. Man is a being capable of deep emo-
tions ; it is through his feelings that he is wrought upon
for good or for evil ; and he has the power not only of
expressing his emotions, but of obtaining relief from
their intensity by that expression. And on what subject
ought he to feel so profoundly as on that which indicates
his relation to his God, and his hopes and fears in refer-
ence to his eternal condition ? What would Dr Southey
say to the eccentricities or improprieties, as he might
perhaps call them, of King David when he complained,
under the pungency of his convictions of sin, " mine
iniquities are gone over mine head, as a heavy burden, 1
they are too heavy for me.. I am troubled ; I am bowed
down greatly ; I go mourning all the day long. I am
feeble and sore broken, / have roared by reason of the
disquiet ness of my heart. Lord, all my desire is before
thee x and my groaning is not hid from thee, TNL^ V«w\

74 REFLECTIONS.

panteth, my strength faileth roe : as for the light of
mine eyes, it also is gone from me." * This description
of the bodily effects of mental suffering in the Psalmist
is more nearly a description of the state of many under
the preaching of Berridge than we were aware of, till the
cases came to be compared. They were feeble and sore
broken, so that they fell to the ground. By reason of
the disquietness of their hearts, they roared, they groan-
ed, they panted, their strength failed, and for a time
they were so absorbed internally, that the light of their
eyes was gone from them. Will any one presume to
say that this is mere poetical description on the part of the
King of Israel? His description of his state also, when
his terrors were removed, seems as if it had been per*
sonally realized in the experience of many of those con-
victed souls : — " He brought me up also out of a hor-
rible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet on a rock,
and established my goings. And he put a new song in
my mouth, even praise unto our God : many shall see it
and fear, and shall trust in the Lord." f
. In almost all the outpourings of the spirit of repent-
ance of which Great Britain affords us examples, we find
that the outward emotions were most violent in the ear-
liest periods of the visitation. After four months, the con-
vulsions and unwonted commotions at Everton had nearly
subsided. Such was also the case among the miners at
Kingswood, and in the awakenings in North and South
Wales, at Cambuslang and Kilsyth, in Scotland, and
more recently in the isle of Arran and the Hebrides.
The experience in revivals in the United States is simi-
lar to this, and it seems to be accounted for on reason-
able grounds. Many souls are, in the beginning of a
revival, arrested in the full career of thoughtlessness.
The mind is suddenly aroused to the consciousness of the
',' horrible pit" on the brink of which it has been long
trifling. It becomes sensible of " the miry clay" of evil
habit and propensity which entangles it and impedes its
flight from the awful danger, and then it " roareth by

* Patois, aocmii. 4, 6, 8, 9, 10. .. + Psalms xL 2, 3.

REFLECTIONS. 75

reason of its disquietness." Being swallowed up in one
fearful conviction, outward restraints have lost their
power, and self-control is for the time impossible. The
bodily frame fails under such dreadful agitations, that
those who have fled from church that they might not
expose themselves, have sunk down in the churchyard ;
and at Kilsyth, those who forcibly suppressed the cry
of anguish, which is nature's mode of unburdening her*
sd£ were seized with bleedings from the nose, which
annoyed and distressed their neighbours more than the
convulsions of others, and left themselves sometimes en-
feebled for weeks or months. That such emotions may
be simulated — that credulous persons have admitted
many things without sufficient examination — that true
conversion and a lively work of the Spirit are not neces-
sarily accompanied by such external demonstrations,
every one must admit ; but that they are an unnatural
ior unreasonable expression of feeling, especially amongst
uncultivated people, little used to the salutary discipline
of self-control, ought not to be asserted. We hear of
no such exhibitions when many hearts were melted du-
ring the seven days that John Wesley preached on his
father's- tomb-stone, at Epworth ; and he himself accounts
for it* The converts were persons whose understandings
had been cultivated, and whose minds had been occupied
about religion before, under the preaching of his father,
though till now their hearts had remained unaffected by
the truth. They received their convictions with still-
ness and tears. This becomes the case during the pro-
gress of a prolonged revival — the careless have bad their
attention turned to their solemn responsibilities by degrees
-•—their minds have, by what is passing around them,
become more familiar with the subjects of judgment and
eternity ; so that when their own hearts are convinced
of sin, they are not so taken by surprise, and receive
the conviction in a more quiet frame. In America it is
perfectly understood that the excess of outward emotion
depends much upon the character of the pastors. When
they seem not to disapprove of it, the people stir up and
infect each other. When they rebuke it, X\ie e\&o\l\wvS&

76 REFLECTIONS.

restrained, or rather changed from outward signs to deep
inward and prayerful solemnity. The same result was
experienced in the isle of Arran, and at Rothsay, in the
isle of Bute, which latter place partook of a small portion
of that good gift, more plentifully distributed in its neigh-
bour isle. The ministers were there as new to such
sudden convictions as Mr Berridge, and knew not how
to deal with the subjects of them ; or perhaps feared to
put forth their hands rashly to touch the work of the
Lord. An eyewitness states, that sometimes, though
rarely, persons were seized with convulsions, so that four
strong men could scarcely bold the individual thus af-
fected. The agitation and distraction of attention from
the truths of the Gospel thus produced, was of course
very distressing ; but it had been allowed to pass with-
out notice from the pastor, because he was at a loss how
to proceed. However, on occasion of the preaching of
an aged and experienced minister, as soon as he observed
symptoms of a rising commotion, he made a solemn pause,
and then admonished his hearers that outward agitation
might be exhibited, when the heart, to which alone God
looks, remained hard and deceitful ; and that he thought
it became those who wished to deny themselves for
Christ's sake, to restrain these bodily movements, and
to pray for the power to do so. His address was accompa-
nied with the best effect, as from that day the more dis-
turbing part of the emotion was restrained, though the
deep and overpowering inward convictions were still ex-
perienced.

• The work of conscience being invisible, and the ope-
rations of the Spirit without voice or sound, it seems
more suited to the recluse position of each soul that its
changes should pass without observation. Yet it is pro-
bable that more practical and realizing views of the dan-
ger of a perishing soul and of the joy of its rescue, would
lead all real Christians to sympathize with, rather than
to censure the utterance of overflowing emotion. It was
those who had no experience of the privation of blind-
ness, who rebuked Bartimius, when he cried out to Jesus,
and it was a personal sense of his own destitution which

I

REFLECTIONS. 77

induced him to cry oat the more earnestly, " Thou son
of David, have mercy on me 1" Would any one rebuke
a man who was suddenly aroused to behold his home in
flames, and perhaps his wife and children involved in the
conflagration, because his first expression of anguish was
an exceeding bitter cry ? Yet what is that sight in com-
parison with the sudden and spiritual view of the awful
truth, that his own soul is, at this very moment, under
divine wrath, and that he has been leading all whom he
loves in the very paths of destruction. Or what soul,
embued with kindly sympathies, could witness the smiles,
the tears, the ecstasies of joy which a mother or wife
might exhibit, on catching a view of the vessel in the
offing, which restores to her the long absent and long
pined-for object of her best affections, without pardoning
the extravagance of her emotion and partaking in her
joy. Yet how small and how short-lived is that happi-
ness, compared to the joy of a soul that is enabled to ap-
prehend Jesus, as its complete and willing deliverer ? —
to the peace of a soul which has passed from the dread
of God's just and inevitable indignation, to the inexpres-
sible peace of knowing him as a reconciled Father ? This
was the experience which put " a new song" into the
mouth of the King of Israel, and which led him to call
for the sympathizing attention of all who fear God, that
they might hear what he had done for his soul.

It has been truly said, that a feeble friend is often more
injurious than an open enemy ; and it seems to have been
the lot of the excitement at Everton to be narrated by a
weak-minded and single-hearted person, who seemed the
more gratified the more the agitation and disorders in-
creased. As a specimen of the cases he records, we select
that of Thomas Skinner, which may serve to illustrate
the above observations.

Mr Berridge had returned to his former charge, at
Stapleford, with solicitude, after his views of the gospel
were opened, that he might preach salvation to his old
hearers. This created a considerable excitement, and
Thomas Skinner seems to have been one of a party,
chiefly farmers, who came to hear him mtVv * ta\ftT?KL-

78 REFLECTIONS*

nation to horsewhip any who might betray strong emo-
tion. " He was," says the narrator, " the chief captain
of Satan's forces ; none was by nature more fitted for
mockery; none could swear more heroically to whip
out of the close all who were affected by the preaching.-'
This man during the sermon was seized with most ap-
palling terrors. " His face became distorted. He roared
and clapped his hands together with bis whole force.
Several fled from him. After a while he began to pray
aloud. Some of the triflers became very serious ; hi
own kindred could scarcely believe the truth of what
they saw. They wished to take him away ; but he fell
to the earth, crying — « My burden ! my burden I I can-
not bear it.' His brother scoffers were calling for horse-
whips, till they saw him extended on his back at fall
length ; they then said he was dead."

From this meagre account little can be gathered except
that a strong vulgar-minded man of violent passions was
under powerful agitation. We ought to know if he
really came to true contrition, or if a mere temporary
fear had surprised him. If from that day he became a
new man, we cannot question that " the Word, which is
stronger than a hammer breaking the rocks in pieces,"
was, with such fearful accompaniments, at that hour
subduing his rebellious heart. But even if this were
not the happy result, we do not see how it can be regard-
ed as a mere physical affection, or called a " disease," in
the common acceptation of the word. We must look
higher than "influenza," or " epidemic," or sympathy, for
the cause. The mind, the conscience, were, for the time
at least, the seat of agitation ; and if this was the com-
mencement of a real conversion, perhaps it exemplifies
somewhat of the meaning of John the Baptist when he
said — " He that cometh after me shall baptize you with
the Holy Ghost and with fire." David said — " My flesh
trembleth for fear of thee, and I am afraid of thy righte-
ous judgments." Need we wonder that others should
experience equal terrors ? Is not the rational subject of
wonder rather that any who have opportunity to hear of
the terrors of the Lord should cease from trembling till

REFLECTIONS. 79

they have accepted the offers of pardon and sanctifi-
cation which are proposed to the sinner through Christ
Jesus?

We introduce here an extract from Richard Baxter's
sermon on " Making light of Christ," which expresses
the deep wrought sense in a rescued soul of what it is
to be in danger for eternity. " Oh, sirs, they are no
trifles or jesting matters that the gospel speaks of. I
must needs profess to you, that when I have the most
serious thoughts of these things myself, I am ready to
marvel that such amazing matters do not overwhelm the
souls of men ; that the greatness of the subject doth not
so overcome our understandings and affections, as even
to drive men beside themselves, but that God hath always
somewhat allayed it by the distance. Much more, that
men should be so blockish as to make light of them.
Oh Lord ! that men did but know what everlasting glory
and everlasting torments are ; would they then hear us
as they do ? would they read and think of these things
as they do ? I profess I have been ready to wonder,
when I have heard such weighty things delivered, how
people can forbear crying out in the congregation, much
more how they can rest till they have gone to their
ministers and learned what they should do. Oh that
heaven and hell should work no more on man ! Oh that
everlastingness should work no more ! Oh how can you
forbear, when you are alone, to think with yourselves,
what it is to be everlastingly in joy or in torment ? I
wonder that such thoughts do not break your sleep, and
that they come not in your mind when you are about
your labour ! I wonder how you can almost do any thing
else ; how you can have any quietness in your minds ;
how you can eat, or drink, or rest, till you have got some
ground of everlasting consolation ! Is that a man, or a
corpse, that is not affected with matters of this moment ?
that can be readier to sleep than to tremble, when he
heareth how he must stand at the bar of God ? Is that
a man, or a clod of clay, that can rise and lie down with-
out being deeply affected with his everlasting estate ;
that can follow his worldly business, and uuakfe t&\&yc^

80 REFLECTIONS*

of the great business of salvation or damnation, and that
when they know it is hard at hand ? Truly, sirs, when I
think of the weight of the matter, I wonder at the very
best of God's saints upon earth, that they are no better,
and do no more in so weighty a case. I wonder at those
whom the world accounteth more holy than needs, and
scorns for making too much ado, that they can put off
Christ and their souls with so little. * * * And
for myself, I am ashamed of my dull and careless heart,
and of my slow and unprofitable course of life ; as, the
Lord knows, I am ashamed of every sermon I preach :
when I think what I have been speaking of, and who
sent me, and that men's salvation or damnation is so
much concerned in it, I am ready to tremble lest God
should judge me a slighter of his truths and the souls of
men, and lest, in the best sermon, I should be guilty of
their blood. Methinks we should not speak a word to
men, in matters of such consequence, without tears, or
the greatest earnestness tbat possibly we can ; were w«
not too much guilty of the sin which we reprove, it
would be so." *

* Baxter's Sermon on Making Light of Christ, quoted from Prince's
Christian History, No. 29.

[ 81 ]

CHAPTER VI.

WESLEY AND WHITFIELD.

[1739.] In the history of British Revivals, the names
of Wesley and Whitfield stand pre-eminent, as men zea-
lous, prayerful, laborious, and successful. A few extracts
from their journals are enough to refute the assertion that
in England we have not seen any powerful and simulta-
neous awakenings of sinners. These journals are so
universally known, that it seems unnecessary to make
large extracts from them here. Besides, it may be as
well to avoid encountering the prejudice which, in many
minds, the name of Methodism does not fail to array in
arms against the reality and solidity of a work of grace.
We cannot, however, doubt that thousands have been con-
verted, have exerted themselves in the Christian world,
have walked consistently, and are entered into the joy of
their Lord, by this instrumentality. The melancholy
troth must be confessed, that in times of strong excite-
ment there have been some partially awakened, who have
seemed to run well for a while, have fallen asleep again,
and -have died in their sins. But happily man is not the
judge of the individual, while he is called upon soberly
and seriously to examine the broad features of those
remarkable occurrences in the history of the Church
which have been recorded as peculiar manifestations of
divine influence, and to exercise his best judgment with
regard to their genuine nature and Scriptural cha-
racter.

It is lamentable to examine with a minute eye the
general condition of Britain as to real Christianity.
Christian England, as we gladly say, when we observe
only the more prosperous spots, which are called into
view because the rays of glory rest on t\iem— CWv$X\&cv

F

82 WESLEY AND WHITFIELD,

England, which we fancy must send up supplications and
praises from all her hills and vales, however remote —
Christian England has, alas ! her long tracts where the
light of the true gospel shines not, where the Sabbath is
but lightly esteemed, and where the little religious ob-
servance that exists consists in superstitious and heart-
less externals. The whole district of the Mendip hills
might as well have been in a country where the sound of
the gospel had never been heard, at the time when the
energetic benevolence of Mrs Hannah More led her to
operate upon it by her schools. Yet it was then as now,'
all divided into parishes, and each parish was decently
furnished with its church and its taper spire, piercing the
clouds to adorn the poet's description. But in these nine
parishes of Mendip was not to be found one resident clergy-
man ; and of those who galloped to the fane to " do duty* 9
on the Sabbath, there was not one who understood the
message of reconciliation that he was charged with, or
cared for what saving results might proceed from his words.
There are still whole serieses of churches through which
a lover of the truth may pass without hearing a word of
that regeneration, without which we cannot enter the
Kingdom of Heaven. There are spots where, under the
guidance of teachers who know not the unbought pardon.
offered in the New Testament, the people are laboriously
working out a righteousness for themselves, and seeking
repose in the number of their prayers and the regularity
of their family worship. O weary, stale, flat and unpro-
fitable ! — O heartless toil ! — O unheard of bondage !—
a Christless family altar ! — a soul seeking to apprehend
God, without knowing the illuminating power of his
Holy Spirit. How beautiful upon the mountains, to such
people, must be the feet of the preacher who brings the
new and unexpected tidings of a justly offended God re-
conciled through Christ Jesus ! What must be the glad sur-
prise of their souls, to learn that He who has paid their debt
is also at the right hand of God pleading for them now I
Such welcome messengers were Whitfield and Wesley
in their day to many a benighted soul ; and almost simul-
taneously with the revivals attendant upon their ministry,

AX KINGSWOOD. 88

did- the Lord vouchsafe an awakening in the Church of
England also ; so that while they went to the highways
and hedges, their brethren within the vineyard began to
preach repentance unto life. Their successors in the faith
continue to this day ; and if we expect to discover any
very recent instances of revival among professing Christ-
ians, in the southern division of the kingdom, we must
look for them chiefly among the Methodists.

As it is not consistent with the plan of this selection
to swell it to a great extent, we shall take Kingswood as
a very fair example of the effects of the joint labours of
Wesley and Whitfield, who were, in the first instance,
nearly equally engaged in the work accomplished there.
Kingswood, which is a district near the city of Bristol,
kad formerly been a royal chase, containing between three
and four thousand acres, but it had been gradually appro-
priated by the several lords whose estates lay round about
its borders, and their title, which, for a long time, was no
better than what possession gave them, had been legal-
ized. The deer and the greater part of the wood had long
since disappeared ; and coal mines having been discovered
there, from which Bristol derives its chief supply of fuel,
it was now inhabited by a race of people as lawless and
untaught as their forefathers of the forest, but far more
brutal, and differing as much from the people of the sur-
rounding country in dialect as in appearance. They had,
at that time, no place of worship, for Kingswood belonged
then to the out-parish of St Philip, Bristol. Had the
colliers felt disposed to travel three or four miles, they
could have found no accommodation in the church of this
populous suburb; and if they could, would have felt
as much out of their element as a sailor does in a city
church. When Whitfield spoke of going to America to
convert the savages, his friends at Bristol replied, " What
seed is there of going abroad for this ? Have we not
Indians enough at home ? If you have a mind to convert
savages, go to the colliers at Kingswood." Towards
these colliers, Whitfield, from this time, felt his heart
yearn, for they were very numerous, and yet as sheep
having no shepherd. On the afternoon) therefore, <&

84 WESLEY AND WHITFIELD,

Saturday, Feb. 17, 1739, he stood upon a mount in a
place called Rose Green, his first field pulpit, and preached
to as many as came to hear, attracted by the novelty of
such an address. " I thought/' says he, " it might be
doing the service of my Creator, who had a mountain for
his pulpit, and the heavens for a sounding-board ; and
who, when his gospel was refused by the Jews, sent his
servants into the highways and hedges." Not above two
hundred persons gathered round him, for there had been
no previous notice of his intention ; and these, perhaps
being no way prepared for his exhortations, were more
astonished than impressed by what they heard. Yet
Whitfield was cheered by this first step, and says, in his
Journal, " Blessed be God, the ice is now broken, and I
have taken the field. Some may censure me, but is there
not a cause ? Pulpits are denied, and the poor colliers
ready to perish for lack of knowledge."

Having once taken the field, he was not only encou-
raged to persevere in such a course by the multitudes
that flocked to hear, but he was shut up to this as his
only opportunity of proclaiming the gospel, as these new
and. irregular proceedings were the means of excluding
him from all the pulpits of the Established Church, in
which he held deacon's orders. He therefore soon went
again to Kingswood. His second audience consisted of
two thousand persons ; his third, from four to five, and
they went on increasing to ten, fourteen, and twenty
thousand. " To behold such crowds," he says, " standing
together in such an awful silence, to hear the echo of
their singing run from one end of them to the other,
was very solemn and striking. How infinitely more
solemn and striking will the general assembly of the
spirits of just men made perfect be, when they join in
singing the song of Moses and the Lamb in heaven?
Yet, as the scene was new, and I had just begun to be an
extempore preacher, it often occasioned many inward
conflicts. Sometimes, when twenty thousand people
were before me, I had not, in my own apprehension, a
word to say either to God or them. But I never was
totally deserted, and frequently so assisted (for to deny

AT KINGSWOOD. 85

it would be' lying against God), that I knew by happy
experience what our Lord meant by saying, * out of his
belly shall flow rivers of living waters.' " The first evi-
dence he observed of having made any impression on his
rude auditors was their deep silence ; the next and still
more -convincing was, his observation of the white gut-
ters made by the tears which fell plentifully down their
cheeks, black and unwashed from the coal-pits. " The
open Armament above me, the prospect of the adjacent
fields, with the sight of thousands and thousands, some in
coaches and some on horseback, and some in the trees,
and at times all affected and drenched in tears together ;
to which was sometimes added the ' solemnity of the
approaching evening,' was almost too much for, and quite
overcame me."

As might have been expected from people so utterly
untrained, except in the savage sports of bull-baiting,
cock-fighting, and other works of the devil, as were the
colliers of Kingswood, in no place was the preaching of
the gospel accompanied with more unrestrained outward
demonstration of feeling. Convulsions, cries, in some
few cases blasphemies which led to the idea of demoniacal
possession, were exhibited. Occasionally, even Wesley,
who was accused of being more prone to credulity than
his colleague, suspected that the emotions were feigned,
and treated them accordingly. But in general, a great
mass of the people were savingly converted, and stood
well the test of being tried by their fruits. Whitfield
was about to leave them in prosecution of his purpose to
visit Georgia. He prevailed on Wesley to eome down to
Bristol to occupy his place, and introduced him to his
many congregations* Wherever he took his leave, there
was loud weeping. " Oh," he exclaims, " these part-
ings ! " An exclamation which, from the day when they
whose hearts were knit to Paul at Ephesus " wept sore,
and sorrowed most of all that they should see his face no
more," till now, has repeated its painful echo in the
hearts of Christians, and will continue to repeat it, till
partings shall cease for ever in the general assembly and.
church of the first-born* When he forced, \&&&^i rora?

86 WESLEY AMD WHITJFIELD,

from Bristol, crowds were waiting at the door to give
him a last farewell, and nearly twenty friends accompa-
nied him on horseback. " Blessed be God ! " he ex-
claims, " for the marvellous great kindness he hath
shown me in this city. Many sinners I believe have
been effectually converted ; numbers of God's children
greatly comforted; several thousands of little books have
been dispersed among the people; about two hundred
pounds collected for the Orphan House ; and many poor
families relieved by the bounty of my friend Mr Seward.
Shall not these things be noted in my book ? God for-
bid they should not be written on the tables of my heart."

His road lay through Kingswood. It must have been
very gratifying to him to find these people, so recently
possessed with all the selfish and stormy passions, waiting
to greet him with an entertainment prepared without his
knowledge. He had preached to them on the duty of edu«-
eating their children, and urged them to subscribe for the
erection of a schoolhouse ; and he himself was surprised
to witness the cheerfulness with which they parted with
their money on this occasion. On his farewell visit, they
earnestly entreated Mr Whitfield to lay the first stone,
which he did ; after which he knelt, and prayed that
the gates of hell might not prevail against the design, to
which petition the colliers said a hearty Amen !

Mr Wesley succeeded him, and after a considerable
struggle against his previous habits and ideas of order,
took to the highways and hedges, with as much success
as Mr Whitfield. His account, a part of which we ex-
tract, corroborates all that has been previously said of the
state of these people. [November 27, 1739.] " Few
persons have lived long in the West, of England who haye
not heard of the colliers of Kingswood, a people famous
from the beginning hitherto for neither fearing God nor
regarding man ; so ignorant of the things of God, that
they seemed but one remove from the beasts that perish,
and therefore utterly without desire of instruction, as
well as without the means of it. Many, last winter, used
tauntingly to say of Mr W T hitfield, if he will convert
heathens, why does he not go tp the colliers of Kingv

AT KINGSWOOD. 87

wood? In spring he did so. When he was called away,
others followed to compel them to come in ; and, by the
grace of God, their labour was not in vain. The scene
is already changed : Kingswood does not now, as a year
ago, resound with cursing and blasphemy. It is no more
filled with drunkenness and uncleanness, and the idle
diversions which naturally lead thereto. It is no longer
full of wars and fightings, of clamour and bitterness, of
wrath and envyings. Peace and love are there. Great
numbers of people are mild, gentle, and easy to be en-
treated. They do not cry, neither strive, and hardly is
their voice heard in the street, or indeed in their own
Wood, unless when they are at their usual evening diver-
sion, singing praise unto God their Saviour. That their
children, too, might know the things which make for
their peace, it was some time since proposed to build a
house in Kingswood ; and after many foreseen and un-
foreseen difficulties, in June last the foundation was laid.
The ground made choice of was in the middle of the
wood, between the London and Bath roads, not far from
that called Two-mile-hill, about three miles from Bristol.
Here a large room was begun for the school, having four
small rooms at the end for the schoolmasters (and, per-
haps, if it should please God, for some poor children) to
lodge in. Two persons are ready to teach as soon as the
house is fit to receive them, the shell of which is nearly
finished ; so that it is hoped the whole will be completed
in spring, or early in the summer. Thus we see that in
the middle of February Kingswood was a wilderness, and
that when the month of June arrived, it was already
blossoming like the rose.

The effect of the leaven which had been thus placed
in this mass of barbarism was made conspicuous in
the following year, in the case of a riot, of which Mr
Charles Wesley gives the following account : Being in-
formed that the colliers had risen in consequence of the
Nearness of corn, and were marching for Bristol, he rode
out to meet them and talk with them. Many seemed
disposed to return with him to the school which had
been built for their children ; but the moeX fa«^feT&&

88 WESLEY AND WHITFIELD,

rushed violently upon them, beating them, and driviag
them away from their pacific adviser. He adds, " I rode
up to a ruffian who was striking one of our colliers, and
prayed him rather to strike me. He answered, f No*—
not for all the world,' and was quite overcome. I turned
upon another, who struck my horse, and he also sunk into
a lamb. Wherever I turned, Satan's cause lost ground, so
that they were obliged to make one .general assault, aad
the violent colliers forced the quiet ones into the town.
I seized one of the tallest, and earnestly besought him to
follow me. Yes, he said, that. he would, all the worid
over. I pressed about six into the service. We met
several parties, and stopped and exhorted them to follow
us ; and, gleaning some from every company, we increa-
sed as we marched on, singings to the school. From one
till three o'clock we spent in prayer, that e^il jnight be
prevented and the lion chained- Then news was brovght
us that the colliers were returned in peace. They had
walked quietly into the city, without sticks -or: the least
violence. A few of the better, sort of them went to the
mayor and told their grievance ; then they all returned
as they came, without noise or disturbance. All who
saw it were amazed. Nothing could have more deadly
shown the changes wrought among them than this con-
duct on such an occasion. I found afterwards that all our
colliers to a man had been forced away. Having learn*
ed of Christ not to resist evil, they went a mile with
those who compelled them rather than free themselves
by violence. One man the rioters dragged out. of his
sick bed, and threw him into the fish-pond. Near twen-
ty of Mr Willis's men they had prevailed on, by threat-
ening to fill up their pits and bury them alive if they* did
not come up and bear them company." * * * " It
was a happy circumstance that they forced so many of
the Methodist colliers to go with them, as these, by their
advice and example, restrained the savage fury of the
others. This undoubtedly was the true cause why they
all returned home without making any disturbance."*

• Watson's Life of Wesley, ??. 60, 8L

AT KINGSWOOD. 89

d now, after nearly a century has elapsed, Kings-
has its humanized population, its Christian mini-
its schoolmasters, its libraries. And it not only
hes the gospel in its own bosom, but it forms its
ies for extending the blessing, and possesses preach-
ations where collections are made for the behalf of
eathen whom they themselves but recently resem-
The school which Wesley here describes is not
n the centre of a wood, but has a high road running
by it. It did not succeed well on his plan, per-
iii part from the style of education. being too high
e inhabitants, but chiefly on account of the rules
•nkish austerity with which he caused it to set out.
Lesley was in character a stern and high disciplina-
and, mistaking the nature of youth, he exacted
- at five in the rigour of winter, and ceaseless appli-
i to some grave pursuit during all the waking hours,
failure of Wesley's school is only mentioned lest
tyers should suppose the fact was purposely con-
L It does not in the least detract from the evi-
i that a great and sudden change was wrought,
sontinues to be visible, among the colliers of
wood.

I

[ 90 ]

CHAPTER VIL

WALES.

It has been remarked that our mountain districts an
those in which converting power has been exhibitec
more in the form of revival than on our plains and if
our cities. The history of Christianity in Wales is ai
example of this. In 1649, the necessities of the Welsl
had attracted the attention of the British Parliament
At that period the propagation of the gospel was m
much an object of care to the state, tbat Friday h
every week was devoted to consultation on the ways am
means of promoting it. The language of Wales vm
little understood, the clergy ignorant and idle, so thai
there was scarcely a sermon in some places from on*
quarter of a-year to another. The people had neitha
Bibles nor Catechisms ; nor was there a sufficient
maintenance for those who were capable of instruct
ing them. The Parliament passed an act on the 22<
of February, for ejecting scandalous ministers and school
masters, and for the redress of grievances. In pursuance
of this act there was placed one faithful minister ii
every market-town and two schoolmasters, " able anc
learned university men ;" and in the thirteen Welsh coun
ties there were placed one hundred and fifty good preach-
ers, most of whom preached three or four times a- week
The tithes were recalled to their proper use of paying
godly ministers and schoolmasters ; and out of them wat
made a provision for the wives and children of the eject-
ed clergy.

As it was impossible all at once to provide a full sap
ply and regular succession of pious and well educatec
ministers who could preach in the Welsh language, ii
165i> they appointed six itinerant preachers for each

HUGH OWEN. 91

ity, to whom they allowed one hundred pounds a-
\ Besides this they sent out thirty ministers, of
>m twenty-four were university men, and some of the
good scholars. But these, though indefatigable in
r pains, were too few for the work. To supply what
further wanting, they approved of several gifted lay-
., members of churches to travel in their neighbour-
Is, and assist the people's devotions. This active
icy produced a sudden change in the moral aspect of
principality, so that Mr PoWel says, some hundreds,
ot thousands, had been converted and reformed by
propagators.*

[r Hugh Owen is an example of the Welsh itinerant,
f his self-denial, exertions, dangers and usefulness —
m we select as a specimen of a whole set of useful
. He was a native of Merionethshire, and a candi-
for the ministry, but it appears that he was never
ined, by reason of the passing of tbe Bartholomew
He fixed his residence on a little estate in his na-
oounty, and preached the gospel without price to the
rant people around him. His preaching was affec-
ite and moving, and many were wrought upon by
He was a burning and shining light in an obscure cor<-
of the world. He went about proclaiming the gospel
alvation, through that and the neighbouring county
ilontgomery, and sometimes extended his labours to
•narvonshire and other parts. He had live or six
?s where he used to preach in Merionethshire, some
hich were twenty miles distant from him. He had
lany in Montgomery, of which some were about
,y miles from his habitation. He performed his cir-
in about three months, and then began again. Great
bers of people attended his ministry, and were much
ted with it. He laboured indefatigably, and much
lired his health, by riding often in the night and cold
i over the mountains. His principal food was milk,
hich he had used himself by lodging in poor houses,
re they had no malt-drink, and only beds of straw.

■

. . * Neal'a History of tbe Puritans* .

92

WALES.

He was a primitive apostolic Christian, eminently

meek and humble ; and would often style himself less

than the least of all the ministers of Jesus Christ. He

would say he envied no man's gifts, but desired faithfully

to improve his own little talent for the service of his Lord.

He was tender of grieving any one, and though strict

in his own person, was yet candid and charitable towards

those who differed from him. He used to say that he

valued no man for his opinions, or his adherence to this

or that party, but for what he saw of the grace of God

in him. His unblemished conversation, and inoffensive

deportment, procured him the esteem of the gentlemen

of the county, to several of whom he was nearly allied.

At one time, when he travelled to preach in a stormy

season, he was benighted on the hills ; the snow *wlk

driven so violently in his face, that his horse could not

go forward. He let him move as he would, until he

found him in danger of the bogs, and that it was not safe

to ride farther. After he had committed himself unto

God by prayer, he left his horse to shift for himself, and

walked in his boots in a deep snow, until it was mid*-

night, and he was so spent, and so nearly starved with

cold, that he despaired of life. But it pleased God that

in a little time he unexpectedly came to a cow-h6use^

which was at a distance from the dwelling-house of the

owner, as is usual in that country. When he got to

the door, he found it barred within, so that he could not

enter. He scrambled about the house for nearly ate

hour, attempting to get in, but to no purpose. At length.

when all hope was gone, he discovered a hole at one end;

that opened to a hay-loft, which he got into with mud

difficulty, and so lay between the cattle until morning.

When it was day he crept out of his miserable lodging

and discovered a house near, at which he knocked ; th<

master of the house arose and opened the door, an<

found his hair and beard frozen, his hands benumbed, hii

clothes stiff with frost and snow, and himself scarce abl<

to speak. He made a good fire for him, gave him ho

milk, and put him into a warm bed, where he lay somi

hours ; and then got up so well xefxe&hed, tfati 7«e wen

HOWEL HARRIS. 93

that morning to the meeting-place, and preached without
am/ sensible prejudice. All who knew him own him to
have been an Israelite indeed, without guile. He died
in 1669, aged 62.*

There seem to be no regular records of the state of re-
ligion in Wales ; but frequently, when any lively minis-
tration was blessed to the awakening of souls, an account
of it found its way into the Glasgow Weekly History,
or some similar religious periodical, and has thus been
preserved from oblivion.

From these, and from Wesley and Whitfield's Journals,
we are enabled to glean as much information as con-
vinces us that there was a very lively outpouring of the
Spirit for several years, under the ministrations of Howel
Harris, a Dissenter, and Griffith Jones, a clergyman of
the Established Church, the one in North, the other in
South Wales. In a very interesting little work, " The
History, Constitution, Discipline, and Confession of Faith,
of the Calvinistic Methodists in Wales," published at
Chester in 1834, we find the following sketch of the
lives and exertions of these holy men : —

" A gentleman of Trevecca, in Brecknockshire, Howel
Harris, Esq., had intended to take holy orders, and for
that purpose entered himself a student in one of the col-
leges at Oxford. He soon became disgusted at the dis-
orderly and immoral conduct which he witnessed there,
and consequently returned to his friends in Wales. He
was not long at home before he ventured to go from
house to house, in his native parish, to exhort sinners,
and gradually he extended his sphere of usefulness to the
adjoining parishes also. His fame soon spread itself over
the whole country, and great multitudes attended his
preaching. It is said that such was the authority and
ppwer with which he delivered his discourses, that many
could not refrain from crying out aloud, being over-
powered by the awful exposition which he made of their
condition as sinners. Family worship was now set up in
several houses which hitherto had never heard the voice

m See C*1&my's Life of Baxter, vol. u.

94

WALES.

of prayer. The enemy could no longer remain inactive?
and now he showed every opposition in his power, by
mockery, derision, and threat enings. Nothing daunted,
however, Mr Harris continued his * labour of Jove,' with-
out suffering very great inconveniency by these hin-
drances, until the close of the year 1736. At this period,
by the desire of several individuals, he established a school
at Trevecca, and thence removed it to the parish church,
whither many of the youth flocked to him, to be more
largely instructed in the things which concerned their
souls. He frequently attended the meetings which they
held for the purpose of teaching each other to sing the
praises of God, that he might thus have an opportunity
of impressing them with a sense of their eternal state.
It appears that, on these occasions, many were convinced
of their sinfulness. This encouraged Mr Harris to esta-
blish regular meetings of serious persons for religious
conversation in several other places ; and this was the
commencement of the private societies which have ever
since (taking into consideration the great importance and
strictness attached to their observance) formed a principal
feature by which the Welsh Calvinistic Methodists may be
distinguished from every other denomination of professing
Christians. The following year, 1737, a gentleman of
Radnorshire sent for Mr Harris, to preach at his house.
This was the means of bringing many of the higher order
of that county to hear him, and of causing him to be well
received by them. Up to this period, he had continued
to superintend the school, although he preached on week
nights, on the Sabbath, and on holidays. He was now
no longer allowed to take care of the school at the parish
church. This prohibition turned out for good ; for now
he was at perfect liberty togo whithersoever he was called,
day or night, to preach, which he frequently did, three,
four, and even five times a day !

" As be became more and more successful, the oppo-
sition against him waxed stronger. The magistrates
threatened to punish him, the clergy preached against
him, and the common rabble were generally prepared to
disturb and pelt him. At this time, he was not accus-

HOWEL HARRIS. 9*

preach from any text, but merely to deliver to
le what the Lord at that instant gave him to say
.Uy in a thundering and convincing manner.

cause so greatly flourished, that, by the year

had established three hundred societies in South
bout three or four years after he commenced his
bours." * * * " We must be permitted a
ression from our own immediate history, to say
ig of a very eminent clergyman of the Esta-
>hurch, the Reverend Griffith Jones, Llanddow-
marthenshire, who at this period was a true
• his countrymen, not only by the faithfulness of
c ministrations, but also by his unbounded cha-

benevolence. He was instrumental in procu-
them two editions of the Bible, and in establish-
schools for the children of the poor in almost
rt of the principality. For twenty-three succes-
-8 he published an annual account of these schools,
37 until 1760. In the last mentioned place he

schools and 8687 scholars. He was an ani-
•reacher well versed in scripture, diligent, labo-
id very successful in his work. Though this re-
champion for faith kept within the pale of the
bed Church, yet he frequently itinerated to
t many other churches besides his own, and was

of preparing in that part of the country the way
•evival among the Methodists. He was in the

about twenty-eight years before Mr Harris be-
►reach ; and we have been told, but cannot vouch
inthenticity of the statement, that it was through
stry Mr Harris was called."
i first minister of the Establishment who ventured
her walls to assist Mr Harris in promoting the

among the Methodists, was the reverend and
nowned Daniel Rowlands, of Llangeitho. His
ty and eloquence were such, that persons have
3wn to come the distance of one hundred miles
him preach, on the Sabbaths of his administering
1'8 Supper ! and it would appear that in the pulpit
ed more )ike an angel sent down fromXYife vaaafc-

96 WALES*

diate presence of Jehovah, with a commission to faller
man, than like a messenger chosen from among thi
children of Adam."

We subjoin an extract from a work, published by on<
of another denomination, who was contemporary with th,
above mentioned individuals, and acquiesced with them :—

" A great number of the youth and others in Wale
were wholly irreligious, and accustomed to meet for thi
purposes of dancing, intoxication, and other sinful prac
tices. These, for the greater part, reckoned themselve
among the members of the Church of England. M
Harris, in his journeys through the country, thundere
terribly against swearers, blasphemers, drunkards,' fight
ers, liars, Sabbath- breakers, &c, so that, if we may &
speak, he showered among them living sparks of the fir
of the bottomless pit. He exhorted in and out of doors
he cared not where, so long as he could attract people i
listen to his message from God. In this respect he wa
preceded by Mr Walter Cradoc, and Mr Vavasor Powell
about a century before. But, in our days, this was a grea
novelty, and vast multitudes congregated to hear hia
About the same time, the Reverend Daniel Rowlands, i
clergyman in Cardiganshire, began to preach in a ver
extraordinary manner in the church. I recollect havinj
heard him, about the year 1737, in Carmarthenshire
A great number were present, and I heard some of th
Independents, in returning home, say, — « We never hear
any one to be compared with him in the Church of Eng
land, unless it were Mr Griffith Jones. In our days ther
has appeared no such light amongst the members of th
Established Church. Soon afterwards the Rev. Wil
Ham Williams and Peter Williams in Caermarthenshin
Howel Davies in Pembrokeshire, and several others ii
the principality left the church and attached themselve
to the Methodists. They became itinerants through th
whole country, and many arose of different degrees o
usefulness to exhort the people ; some of very bright ta
lents, and others who preached occasionally, so that th
country became greatly moved. The people forsool
their sinful pleasures, and began to converse about reli

HOWEL HARRIS. 97

on, and to meet together as religious assemblies. Thus
great revival took place in the country ; and from that
> the present period, the knowledge of God has been
onderfuUy diffused through Wales, and multitudes who
ere never used to approach a chapel, and seldom a
lurch, now went gladly to hear the Word to dwelling-
ouses, yea even to the highways and hedges." *
Another author speaks of the revival in this man-
or: — " This awakening was the means of not only esta-
lishing a new sect in Wales, but also of reviving the old
ects which had a previous existence there ; for, though
here were celebrated and useful men among the Inde-
endents in the principality, yet a torpidity and listless-
ess in spiritual concerns had to a great degree crept over
very denomination. This revival by the Methodists
ras hailed by all the Calvinistic sects in Wales and Eng-
md as the longed for dawn of day, and the rising of
he sun, after a protracted and wearisome and starless

light. * * *. .

* The revival, like a mighty conflagration, spread wider
nd wider, in spite of all the torrents of opposition with
ririch it had to contend ; they served only to make it
turn brighter and stronger. Mr Harris, in a letter to
klr Whitfield, dated October 15th, 1742, observes, « 1
lave heard most glorious news from Wales, of the suc-
cess which attends the brother Rowlands, and many
>thers. Sinners are pricked to the heart by scores, and
housands assemble to hear the preached word. There
ire ten clergymen now in Wales who are owned in a re-
markable manner of the Lord Jesus Christ."!

We find the following notice in Whitfield's Journal,
lated Cardiff, March 8, 1739:— "I was much refreshed
ay the sight of my dear brother, Howel Harris, whom,
though I knew not in person, I have long since loved in
the bowels of Jesus Christ, and have often felt my soul
drawn out in prayer in his behalf. A burning and a
shining light has he been in these parts, — a barrier against
profaneness and immorality, and an indefatigable pro-

# Harris y Bedyddwyr yn mhlith y Cymry, tu dal. 5$.
f History of Calvinistic Methodists in "Wales, p. \\ .

G

98 WALES.

moter of the true gospel of Jesus Christ. About thro
or four years God has inclined him to go about doing
good. He is now above twenty-five years of age. H<
is resolved to go on in his work, and indefatigable zea
has he shown in his Master's service. For these thre
years he has discoursed almost twice every day, for thre
or four hours together ; not authoritatively as a minister
but as a private person exhorting his Christian brethren
He has been in seven counties, and has made it his busi
ness to go to wakes, &c, to turn people from such lyinj
vanities. Many ale-house people, fiddlers, harpers, See.
sadly cry out against him for spoiling their business. H
has been threatened with public prosecutions, and ha
constables sent to apprehend him ; but God has bless©
him with inflexible courage ; he is of a most Catholi
spirit, loves all that love our Lord Jesus Christ, an<
therefore he is styled by bigots a Dissenter. He is con
temned by all that are lovers of pleasure more than lover
of God ; but God has greatly blessed his pious endea
vours. Many own him as their spiritual father, and
believe would lay down their lives for his sake. He dis
courses generally in a field ; but at other times in a house
from a wall, a table, or any thing else. He has establish^
near thirty societies in South Wales, and still his spher
of action is enlarged daily. After I had saluted him, aa<
given an exhortation to a great number of people win
followed me to the town, we spent the remainder of th
evening in taking sweet counsel together, and telling on
another what God had done for our souls. We also tool
an account of the several societies, and agreed on sucl
measures as seem most conducive to promote the commoi
interests of our Lord. Blessed be God, there seems t<
be a noble spirit going out into Wales. They have man]
burning and shining lights, both among the Dissentin]
and Church ministers, amongst whom Mr Griffith Jone
shines in particular. No less than fifty charity school
have been erected by his means, without any settled vi
sible fund, and fresh ones are setting up every day
People make nothing of coming twenty miles to hear
sermon, and great numbers there are who have not onl;

HOWSL HARRIS. 99

been hearers, but doers also of the Word ; so that there
is a most comfortable prospect of the spreading of the
Gospel in Wales.

[1742.] In a letter from a dissenting minister in
Wales, published in the Glasgow Weekly History, Oct.
26, 1742, mention is made of the same zealous man : —
" In Caernarvonshire there is one congregation of dissen-
ters, who are very devout and zealous people, as perhaps
any in the kingdom; and three lecture places, all of
them on that promontory or narrow neck of land that
stretches out into the sea, and is the best inhabited part
of the county. The minister is Mr John Thomas, a
humble, meek, serious man, who preaches well. Mr
Howel Harris, and some Methodists, together with Jen-
kyn Morgan, the schoolmaster, have been made instru-
mental to awaken and convert many in these parts, but
were grievously persecuted ; they have even broke into
the meeting-house and committed strange outrages, the
devil, .their master, being wonderfully nettled at his lo-
sing so many souls.

" Pembrokeshire has been lately mightily roused up,
and abundance of people convinced, reformed, and con-
verted, by means of the exhortations of Mr Howel Har-
ris, and other Methodist exhorters ; and contrary to Car-
diganshire, 'tis the upper part of Pembrokeshire that has
been roused and reformed, and that almost universally,
to a concern about religion. Certainly a very great work
has been done there. Among the clergy, Mr David
Jones and Mr Howel Davies are very eminent, especially
the latter, who is a mighty Boanerges, and very indus-
trious in preaching, both in churches, houses, and fields."

[1766.] This excellent labourer in the church is also
mentioned by Mr Venn, in a letter descriptive of a tour,
during which he sought out the zealous and faithful, and
refreshed his spirit by their holy intercourse. His infor-
mation refers to a period more than twenty years subse-
quent to Whitfield's, thus exhibiting that devoted man
as an aged, persevering, and still highly honoured mi-
nister of Christ. " From Bath, through Bristol and
Gloucester, we arrived at Trevecca, in "Wales. W«ro&»

100 WAtES.

Harris is the father of that settlement, and the founder.
After labouring for fifteen years, more violently than any
other of the servants of Christ, in this revival, he was so
hurt in body as to be confined to his own house for seven
years. Upon the beginning of this confinement first one
and then another whom the Lord had converted under
his word, to the number of near a hundred, came and
desired to live with him, saying that they would work
and get their bread. By this means, near one hundred
and twenty men, women, and children, from very distant
parts of Wales, came and fixed their ' tents at Trevecca*
We were there three days, and heard their experience,
which they spoke in Welsh to Mr Harris, and he inter-
preted to us. Of all the people I ever saw, this society
seems to be the most advanced in grace. They speak as
men and women who feel themselves every moment
worthy of eternal punishment, and infinitely base, and
yet at the same time have such certainty of salvation
through the second man, the Lord from heaven, as is
indeed delightful to behold. My heart received a bless-
ing from them and their pastor, which will abide with
me."*

The Rev. Griffith Jones is made honourable mention
of in Whitfield's Journal, February 22, 1739: — " I went
with some Christian friends to Bath, where I was much
comforted by meeting with several who love the Lord
Jesus in sincerity ; — more especially, I was edified by
the pious conversation of the Rev. Griffith Jones, whom
I had desired to see of a long season. His words came
with power ; and the account he gave me of the many
obstructions he had met with in his ministry convinced
me that I was but a young soldier just entering the
field."

In the " Glasgow Weekly History," 1742, he is also
named. " Among the clergy is the famous Mr Griffith
Jones, one of the most excellent preachers in Great
Britain, for piety, good sense, diligence, moderation, zeal,
and a mighty utterance, the like whereof I never heard.

* Life of Rev. H- Venn, p. 122.

GRIFFITH JONES. 101

He is so catholic-spirited and charitable, that he allows
his communicants to communicate with dissenters, and
them with him. He hath set up movable Welsh free
schools in every county in South Wales, and in some
counties in North Wales, to teach the poorer sort to read
Welsh, and hath thereby done unspeakable good."

So long 1 after as about 1770, we find a venerable dis-
ciple of Griffith Jones, named Rees Hugh, mentioned
as an important instrument in the conversion of Mr
Charles of Bala. Thus does the stream of heavenly
truth flow down through earthen vessels from one gene-
ration to another, and our God condescends to be glori-
fied in the faithfulness of his redeemed. The records of
gospel progress in Wales are scanty and indistinct, yet
from occasional glimpses it seems that its mountains
have been the scenes of repeated and lively outpourings
of the spirit, and that it has possessed a few pastors
abundant in labour and unshrinking in hardships as were
the Apostles themselves.

In the Rev; Edward Morgan's preface to his " Life of
Mr Charles," we have the following brief notice, which
excites not only earnest curiosity, but deep regret that
our information is so narrow, without the hope of ex-
tending it.

" The Welsh have been favoured during the last cen-
tury with a few individuals, the memory of whom ought
to have been preserved to the latest generation. The
effects of their labours are still visible, and will probably
continue so for many ages, but their names will ere long
be forgotten, there being no records of their lives except-
ing a bare notice of them in some of the periodicals of
the day. This may be said of the Whitfield of Wales,
the Rev. Daniel Rowlands of Llangeitho, the father of
the Welsh Methodists, now by far the most numerous
denomination in Wales, and who no doubt have done
more towards evangelizing the country than all other
denominations put together. Rowlands was allowed by
all who knew and heard him to be a most extraordinary
preacher. He possessed in a very high degree ever
qualification necessary for the purpose ot roomvc^ fe

102 WALES.

dormant people, sunk in ignorance and ungodliness. Bat
no detailed account of his labours has ever been publish-
ed. The same has been the case with respect to sereral
of his fellow-labourers, one of whom is entitled to parti-
cular notice as having been the Watts of Wales, the sweet
singer of our Israel. We allude to the Rev. Mr Wil-
liams, late of Pantycel yn, Caermarthenshire. His hymns,
for deep experience and glorious views of the Redeemer,
have few to equal them in any language ; and they have
been eminently blessed to the edification and comfort of
thousands." *

We have great pleasure in presenting a translation of
one of these beautiful hymns, furnished by the kindness
of a native of that interesting principality :—

" Why should cruel beasts be suffer'd

To tread down the feeble vine ?
Why should blossoms young and fragrant,

Through the mighty drought decline ?
Bring the pleasant fruitful showers

That will cause the grapes to thrive ;
May a shower in the morning

And at even-tide arrive !

" Fix, O Lord, a tent in Goshen,

Thither come, and there abide !
Bow thyself from light celestial,

And with sinful man reside.
Dwell in Zion, there continue,

Where the holy tribes ascend ;
Do not e'er desert thy people,

Tin the world in flames shall end.

•' I am tired with Babel's rivers,

Nought but weeping there I find ;
The melodious harps of Zion

Every day attract my mind.
Out of Babel's dismal thraldom

Bring us forth, a loving band ;
And, until we come to Zion,

Let us not a moment stand."

By means of the generosity of the same friend, we
♦ Preface to the Lift •( GV^sxln, $. *.

Wc WILLIAMS. 103

have been furnished with an autograph of Mr Williams'
account of the superintendence of one of the societies in
Glamorganshire, of which he was the secretary in 1 743.
The total amount of members is 168. They are arran-
ged under the names of their Tillages, and again divided
into married men, single men, married women, &c. At
the head of some lists the word " justified" is written,
at others, the word " law," indicative probably of the
state of progress of the individuals. These terms are not
so employed now in the sect. Such notices as the fol-
lowing are interspersed : — " Mrs Amy Price died, May,
1743, in full assurance of faith." " Br. William Lewis
died in Liberty, June y* 4, 1743." Beside some names
is written •* justified bondage," and beside others, "jus-
tified law," — marks which, though not distinctly intelli-
gible to us, conveyed to the diligent, superintendent infor-
mation enough to guide him in his method of enquiry and
instruction to the individual when next his circling duties
brought him back to the same spot.

There are further notices of Daniel Rowlands in the
" Life of Charles," which we extract entire : —

" These awakenings were new things at Bala and its
vicinity, but not so in South Wales, under the ministry
of Mr Rowlands. Many at different times had taken
place there, and some far more extensive than those in
North Wales ; for they extended generally over several
counties. They were not recorded except in Heaven,
and therefore we have now no particular knowledge of
them. The history of the labours of that extraordinary
man, had it been written, would scarcely have found a
parallel in the annals of biography. There are no doubt
thousands, yea tens of thousands, now in Heaven, who
acknowledge him as their father in Christ. But what
must we say of these extraordinary awakenings ? By
what power were they produced ? By human power ?
By human agency, no doubt, but not by human power.
If the preacher's eloquence, earnestness, and zeal, or what
the adversary would call vehemence and violent ardour,
had effected them, how was it that the influence of these
means was not universal, instead of being bo QC£&A\a&&»

104 WALES*

at the distance of several years, and confined at one
time to this part and at another to that part of the
country ?

" . No, we mnst refer them to the power of Him who
' worketh all things after the counsel of his own will. 1
We are confirmed in this opinion by the character of the
impressions produced, and by their effects. Deep con-
victions of sin, heart-rending 1 concern for the soul, self-
abhorrence, self-abasement, earnest entreaties for mercy,
importunate supplications for reconciliation with God,
through the merits of the Saviour, followed, after perse-
vering prayer, by the enjoyment of peace, comfort, and
gratitude, — what are these but the genuine impressions
of that glorious Spirit who changeth the heart and renews
the soul after the Divine image ! And what were the
effects manifested in the life and posterior conduct?
Exactly such as bore the same marks and proofs of a
Divine power, — departure from iniquity, and humble
walking with God.

" These awakenings, then, were substantially the
same with what all true Christians undergo, however
gradual and varied in manner. The difference is only in
things that are circumstantial, — in the number awaken-
ed at the same time, and in the strength of the feelings
experienced. With the exception of these minor points,
there was nothing in them but what proved them to be
the common genuine operations of the Spirit — operations
without which there can in no case be any thing like
true religion. O that we could see such awakenings in
the present day ; such manifestations of the Divine
power ; such evidences of the Divine favour ! O that
every part of the country could witness them ; England
as well as Wales ; and not only England and Wales, but
the whole world 1 What is the ' nation that is to be
born in a day ' but the effect of such simultaneous awa-
kenings widely extended ? The few extraordinary occur-
rences of this kind that have already been seen, are no
more than small specimens and preludes of those won-
derfully great and extensive awakenings, which, as we
Jaope, are on the eve of taking place when a second and

DANIEL ROWLANDS. 105

still more glorious Pentecost shall be exhibited before
the eyes of a wondering world, to the exaltation of saints,
and the confusion of sinners. Great preparations pre-
ceded those awakenings which we have been recording ;
schools were established ; the people were instructed ;
the gospel had for some time been powerfully preached ;
earnest prayers were offered up to heaven for success.

" The Lord heard, and showers of blessings were poured
down, and a glorious harvest was vouchsafed. What do
we now see in the Christian world ? What but similar
preparations, but on a much larger scale. If there be
my thing wanting, it is the strong and earnest crying for
the powerful visitations of heaven, for the outpouring of
that spirit, without whose aid nothing effectual can ever
be done. May then the spirit of prayer be more univer-
sal ; may its entreaties be more ardent ; and its impor-
tunities increase until they prevail I We shall then
witness 4 the arm of the Lord revealed ; ' the almighty
power of his grace made known, and a nation born in
a day.

" These singular awakenings, as we have already said,
first began under the ministry of Mr Rowlands ; the very
first took place while he was officiating in the church,
and occurred, perhaps many will be surprised to hear,
while he was reading the litany. At that passage of it
which begins thus, " By the mystery of thy holy incar-
nation/' &c. the effect was astonishing. The people were
melted into tears and wept loudly. The impression spread
widely through the whole neighbourhood. The most
powerful awakenings took place in the three churches
which he served, and many were savingly impressed.
The next, according to my information, commenced at
a prayer meeting held at Llangeitho Chapel. So that
the two first had their beginning in prayer, which of all
means is the most effectual to draw down upon us
the blessing of heaven. Not less than six or seven of
these extraordinary awakenings took place in the life-
time of Mr Rowlands, and were the means of large addi-
tions to his people ; most of whom usually stood their
ground, though not without some instances of tafa&vsou

106 WALES.

And what is remarkable, several of them occurred at in-
tervals of seven years. There are now old people living
who have a perfect recollection of three of them succes-
sively occurring at this regular distance of time. One
great awakening is mentioned from its having been more
extensive than any other, during which many hundreds,
and even thousands were, according to ail appearances,
savingly impressed. Whatever may be thought of some
things that attended them (for whatever is done among
men, always in a measure partakes of their weakness and
depravity), yet they were most clearly the productions of
a divine power, and the evidence of divine favour." *

This venerable servant of God has passed into eternity,
and with him the great company who were, by his
means, led to repentance unto life ; but the seed of the
righteous remains where he reaped his rich harvest
One who has heard of him from his forefathers, states,
that Daniel Rowlands was obliged to have a private
door from his house directly into his pulpit, that he
might avoid the presence of the multitude, to speak, to
look, to touch but his garments, which was inconvenient
and trying to his feelings when he endeavoured to pass by
the ordinary way ; and that his preaching was with such

Sower that a few sentences of his sermon would net
ave been uttered till hundreds were melted to tears.
His voice was like a clear and melodious trumpet, and
his manner full of energy and fervour. A few of his
sermons remain. One, translated from the Welsh, has
been published by the London Tract Society, called,
" The Redeemer s Voice." Its force, rapidity, might in
the Scripture, and careless richness in classical allusion,
give us some idea, though doubtless a faint one, of that
instrument so honoured of the Holy Spirit.

The Reverend Rowland Hill delighted greatly in
Wales. Its mountain scenery and its mountain Chris-
tians stirred all the poetry of his genius, and all the
ardour of his affections. In one of his last visits to the
Societies in South Wales, he was much touched by, and

• Life of Mr Chariot, f. 292.

DANIEL ROWLANDS. 107

often after spoke of the following little incident. During
the meeting of the Society, a man, verging towards a
hundred years old, raised himself from the corner in
which he was reclining, and, while he aided his feeble
limbs by leaning on his trembling hands, he raised his qui-
vering voice, and addressed himself to the young ministers,
in his broken English, " Brethren, let me tell you this
—I have heard Daniel Rowlands preach, and I heard him
once say, ' except your consciences be cleansed by the
Mood of Christ, you must all perish in the eternal fires.' "
Rowlands had been for half a century in glory, but here
was a voice, as from the grave, bearing testimony to his
faithful doctrine. Probably this sentence, so deeply en-
graved on the memory of the aged man, was the very
one which first subdued his heart and brought him to
his Saviour. It is with peculiar pleasure that we here
introduce some letters, copied from originals never be-
fore printed, which remove us from the public ministra-
tions, to exhibit to us the private thoughts and hourly
pursuits of these holy and lively Christians. We begin
with one from

Mr Rowlands to Howel Harris.

" October 20th, 1743.

u Dear, dear Brother,

« I bless you for your letters, they were like showers
of rain to a dry land ; indeed the Lord gave you the
tongue of the learned, but oh ! oh what am I ? A
painted hypocrite, and a miserable sinner ; 1 know all
the to'e and fro's and up's and down's that are in reli-
gion, but the blessed liberty remaining for the children
of God is still hidden from me. 1 believe you pray for
me ; God grant you may prevail. I wish 1 could skip and
leap over all mountains of pleasures, laziness, hard-
heartedness, unbelief, &c., and rest upon the breast of
the beloved, and never, never enough-praised Jesus.
Oh come blessed time when all prisoners of hope shall
be released, and enter into the rest of their ieax Ixm&ftf

108 WALESr

nuel. I don't doubt but your soul joins with me to $*f
Amen, Amen.

. " I've been now of late in Montgomeryshire; had great
power there to convince and to build ; persecution in-
creases, some of the brethren were excommunicated. (I
hope you will consult with the brethren in London, and
send us what is best to do.) Afterwards, at Brecknock,
in several houses and churches, I preached with uncom-
mon power ; I heard since that I am put into the court
by Mr Phillips of Built for discoursing at an ale-house
there ; your sentiments about this would be vastly ser*
viceable. Brother Wm. Williams is put in too, for not
living in the parish where he officiates, &c. The last
week I've been in some part of Carmarthenshire and
Glamorgan ; and brave opportunities indeed they were ;
whole congregations were under concern, and such cry*
ing out that my voice could not be heard. Some per-
sons of quality did entertain me with uncommon respect*
Oh what am I that my ears and eyes should hear and
see such things ! Oh help me to bless the God of
Heaven ; I hope His kingdom begins to come ; oh,
Satan, be packing, fly, fly with trembling, lest the God
of Israel come at thee. Oh Lord chastise him. Amen.
Lord, dawn with him ; let his kingdom shatter, and him
be trampled under the feet of Thy children. How long
shall he domineer over Thy little ones ? My dear bro-
ther, up with your arms, give not an inch, the God
whom you serve can, yea and will deliver us ; in His
might we shall win the field. Don't you hear all the
brethren in Wales crying out loudly, Help ! help I help!
help ! Brother Harris, thou bold champion, where art
thou? What, in London, now, now in the day of
battle ? What, has not London champions enough to
light for her ? Where are the great Wesleys, Cennick,
&c. Must poor Wales afford an assistance to England ?
Oh, poor Wales ! it is thy ingratitude altogether has
"been the cause of all this. Good Lord, pity poor Wales ;
send our dear brother among us with Thy power, and in
the fulness of thy blessing, and let the Devil tremble be*
fore him. Amen, Amen. - My poor flock do increase daily ;

GEORGE WHITFIELD. JQ9

j would be heartily glad to see and hear you. Brother
n*. was here last Sunday, and a sweet day it was. I
3 him more and more because of his simple, honest,
ii way of dealing with the people. His parishioners
highly incensed against him. ' * * * Methinks
Mir you enquiring after Caernarvonshire ; Benj n . Tho-
i is there ; they come by thousands to hear. Brother
well Davis promised to go, but what detains him I
w not. I can't possibly go this winter, for want of
to supply my room at my churches. The next
*k I promised to be at Pembroke and the lower part
Caermarthen ; shortly after at Convil, &c. Dear
ther, never fail to intercede for me, who am your
ng friend, well-wisher, and unworthy brother,

" Dan. Rowlands.'*

George Whitfield to Howel Harris.

" Feb. 27, 1741.

Iy very dear Brother,

c Forgive me for not writing to you — indeed the Lord
not given me freedom. Besides, I waited for an ac-
nt of your meeting, and the letter which brought the
ount did not reach me till my coming up to London.
m glad the blessed Jesus was amongst you. I ap-
ve of your determination, and hope yet to see a glo-
iis harvest in Wales. I fear I cannot possibly come
March. The Lord will send me in his own due time,
lave been lately in Gloucester and Gloucestershire.
zh an awakening I never knew before in those parts.
jther Charles followed me immediately, and I fear,
h. his brother,* will sow tares, and set the poor souls
puting. I have conversed freely with them both,
ecially brother John. Oh that the Lord would lead
a into all truth ! I hope you have dropt your notion
>ut the soul's receiving a kind of Pentecost, whereby
shall be delivered immediately from all sin, as it were,

* The Wesleys

110 WALES.

root and branch ? My dear brother, the work of sanctt-
fication is a gradual work, and the Redeemer gently
leads on his children, step by step, till he brings them
to eternal glory. I know you will not be offended at
this plain dealing. Use the same liberty with me, I be-
seech you. I came hither" (supposed to London) " on
Wednesday evening. Brother Cennick has been ill of a
fever, but the Lord has rebuked it, blessed be his name !
I have not yet seen Brother Rowlands, and indeed as yet
have not time to read it, for I believe forty letters now
lie by me unread. Glorious news from New England,
Scotland, Carolina, &c. The Lord Jesus hath been plea-
sed mightily to bless my poor ministry — oh that I were
humble ! The inward trials and temptations my dear
wife and I have undergone are unspeakable. * * *

" I have had sweet conversation with some of the
Moravian brethren. Surely the time will come when all
God's children shall unite together — I know you say
Amen. God hath much blessed my preaching. At
every service the Lord hath been with me. To-night
he gave me to look into his bleeding heart. It inflamed
my heart, and out of the abundance of my heart my
mouth spake. The Holy Ghost was much amongst us
— O may it £11 your dear soul, that you may be filled
with all the fulness of God, prays, my dear Brother Syms
and my dear Brother Harris,

" Your most affectionate, though most unworthy.
Brother and Servant in Jesus Christ,

« G. W."

" B r . Rich d . Ellis is dead, as also Br. Kenchin and his
sister. The Lord prepare us for our great change.''

We have an opportunity of presenting also a letter
from the Moravian Bishop Gambold to the same zealous
man.

Bishop Gambold to Howel Harris.

" My dear Brother,

" Your loving visit has left such an impression on me,

BISHOP GAMBOLD. Ill

as I could not easily forget, though I have so long omit-
ted writing to you. I embrace the correspondence with
peat joy and pleasure, as an acknowledgment of the
anion subsisting between all those who love the Lord
Jesus, and have no other trust but his blood-purchased
righteousness, however distant they may seem to be in
respect of outward regulation or method. Indeed, this
distance always appears greatest to a shallow observer,
and least to those who are concerned about the central
point itself, and enter with all their heart and affections
into the mystery of the cross, the sufferings of Christ,
and the glory which not only shall follow, but lies al-
ready therein. There is nothing important but to pro-
fess them, enjoy our Redeemer, walk before him unto
all well pleasing, rejoice over other souls whom sin and
misery have driven, like us, to this remedy, the everlasting
righteousness of his blood, and apply by preaching the
indefeasible energy of his propitiation to the enlighten-
ing and quickening of many more who are still blind
and dead, and do not know what has been prepared so
long ago by the counsel of God for their relief. I am
well persuaded these are the things you are employed
in, the object of all your labour and comfort ; and
through grace they shall be mine also, according to my
small measures, while I am in the body. 'Tis really a
sweet truth to me that Jesus Christ has loved me, and
died for me before I was born, and that now I can have
access to him for every thing I want ; and 1 wish this
rich salvation could but enter into, and establish itself in
all human hearts and minds. * * * * I wish you
success in the Lord's work, and abide,

" Your poor fellow-believer and fellow-labourer

in his vineyard,

" J. Gambold."

" My wife desires her hearty love to yours.

" Mr Bowers, in Nevil's Alley,

Fetter-Lane.

Nov. 23, 17 50."

[ 112 3

CHAPTER VIII.

CHARLES, OF BALA.

Mr Charles describes himself as having been the
subject of religious impressions at the age of twelve,
during his residence at school. His lively and suscep-
tible temper having thus early received a gracious bias,
he went on deriving additions to his stock of know-
ledge, and increasing in devotional feeling from all the
helps which Providence put in his power.

[1773.] In his eighteenth year he first heard Mr Row-
lands preach, and in his Diary, says of that time, " This
is a day much to be remembered by me as long as I live.
Ever since that happy day I have lived in a new heaven
and a new earth. The change which a blind man who
receives his sight experiences, does not exceed the
change which at that period I experienced in my mind.
It was then that I was first convinced of the sin of un-
belief, or of entertaining narrow, contracted, and hard
thoughts of the Almighty. I had such a view of Christ
as our High Priest, of his love, compassion, power, and
all-sufficiency, as filled my soul with astonishment, with
joy unspeakable and full of glory. My mind was over-
whelmed and overpowered with amazement. The truths
exhibited to my view appeared for a time too wonderfully
gracious to be believed. I could not believe for very
joy. The glorious scenes then opened to my eyes will
abundantly satisfy my soul, millions of years hence, in
the contemplation of them. I had before some idea oi
gospel truths floating in my head, but they never power*
fully, and with divine energy, penetrated my heart til)
now. The effect of this sermon remained on my mine
for half a year ; during which time I was generally in i
comfortable and heavenly frame. Often, while walking

CHARLES, OF BALA. 113

in the fields, I looked up to heaven with joy, and called
that my home, at the same time ardently longing for the
appearance of the glorious Saviour to take me for ever to
himself. At times doubts would come into my mind,
and I would say within myself, — * Can it he possible
that these things are true ? ' The Lord would reply, —
1 1 will not execute the fierceness of mine anger ; I will
not return to destroy Ephraim, for lam God and not
man.' * Praise the Lord, O my soul ! and forget not
all his benefits/ " *

Such is a. specimen of the quickening exercises by
which this servant of God was prepared for the service
he was to be honoured to perform ; and, as was most na-
tural for his grateful heart, the time of this blessed expe-
rience, and Mr Rowlands, its instrument, are never al-
luded to, even at the distance of years, but with the
warmest thankfulness and most ardent admiration. For
example, in 1780, he writes, — " 1 think with you, that
not only Bala bach (dear Bala), but Wales itself, is a
highly-favoured country. That aged herald of the King
of Glory, D. Rowlands, is, and will be, an eternal honour
to it. 1 seldom can speak of him in moderate terms. 1
love him dearly, and honour him as my father in Christ,
and not without reason ; for to him, under God, 1 am
indebted for whatever light I have into, and experience
I have of, the glorious salvation through Christ. 1 hope
to see him once more, if the will of God be so, before he
takes his flight. 1 shall never forget a sermon I heard
him preach, from Heb. iv. 15, January 20, 1773. I re-
member the blessed time with infinite delight."f

The remembrance of his early experiences seems, as
the Psalmist says, " sweeter than honey to his mouth."
As thus, on revisiting the home of his childhood. — " On
the 13th of August we arrived safe at my father's, and
found all my friends and relations well ; most of them
going on in their usual way. 1 looked on those little
corners of the house, and sequestered hedges of the fields,
where my soul in former days struggled with God in

* Life of Charles.— P. 7. f ^ d * p » M-

H

114 WALES.

prayer and obtained his blessing, with inexpressible plea-
sure. I could not but view those spots in which I en-
joyed refreshing communion with God, as holy ground.
My father's farm wore the appearance of Paradise. The
memory of the various blessings at different times en-
joyed filled my heart with joy and praise." *

Such was the preparatory work by which the Head of
the Church fitted his servant for labour and filled his
heart with matter ; so that not in the pulpit alone, but
in the schools, in the huts, and on the highways ami
wild mountains, he was «ver fraught with a prayerful
concern for souls.

" If he met a poor man or woman on the road, he
would stop his horse and make the enquiry, — * Can you
read the Bible ?' He was so much in the habit of doing
this, that he became every where known from this prac-
tice. The gentleman who kindly asked the poor people
about the Bible and their souls, was Mr Charles. His
fame reached far beyond the circle where he was person-
ally known. Meeting one day with an old man on one
of the mountains, he said to him, — * You are an old man,
and very near another world.' — « Yes/ said he ; < and I
hope I am going to heaven/ — ' Do you know the road
there ; do you know the Word of God ? ' — ' Pray, are
you Mr Charles ? ' said the old roan. He suspected who
he was, from his questions. When asking the poor
people he met with about their eternal concerns, — ' Pray,
are you Mr Charles ? ' was often the enquiry which met
him. When he had time, he scarcely ever passed by a
poor man on the road without talking to him about his
soul, and his knowledge of the Bible. When he found
any ignorant of the Word of God and unable to read it,
he would represent to them, in a kind and simple man-
ner, the duty and necessity of becoming acquainted with
it, and feelingly and compassionately set before them the
awful state of those who leave the world without know-
ing the Word of God, and the way of saving the soul.
He sometimes succeeded in persuading them to learn to
read ; and the good he thus did was no doubt very great.
* * # The example of an old man undertaking the

* Life of Chixta P. **•

CHARLES, OF BALA. 115

task, the unusual task, of learning to read his Bible,
tended more than any thing else to induce others to make
the same attempt. What could have been a more prac-
tical imitation of Him c who went about doing good, 9 than
this conduct of Mr Charles ? " *

A short extract from a letter to his wife exhibits his
strong faith in the work of the Holy Spirit, and his own
internal experience of those gracious influences which
sustained him in, and dictated, his abundant and multi-
form methods of fixing the attention of careless sinners.

LETTER TO MRS CHARLES.

" God is so rich, so powerful, so unchangeable, and so
near at all times and in all places, that those who are the
objects of his love cannot but be inexpressibly happy and
infallibly safe. I firmly believe that nothing so effectu-
ally promotes holiness as a true belief of His love to us
in particular. 1 have found this afternoon more comfort
and joy than 1 have experienced for some time past, in
reflecting on the love of each of the Divine Persons en-
gaging themselves respectively to accomplish the work
of redemption. The Father loved us freely and gave his
Son. The Son loved us freely and gave himself for us.
The Holy Ghost loved, and still loves us freely, and
comes to sanctify and comfort us, and to dwell in our
hearts. The love of the Spirit affected my mind most
particularly. As no un worthiness prevented the Son of
God from coming to redeem us, so also no depravity pre-
vented, or prevents, the Holy Ghost from coming to
sanctify and comfort his people, and to dwell for ever
with them. He has loved them freely from all eternity,
in all their sin and abomination ; he therefore comes to
them and abides with them for ever. Christ came
freely to do all for them ; the Holy Ghost comes as freely
to do all in them ; and all his workings in them are in-
finitely free from beginning to end. May the Lord help

«

• Life of Charles.— P. 265.

116 WALKS.

118 to believe this ! I experience the difficulty of it at
this moment. This single consideration is all my pre-
sent comfort, when 1 think of the great work I am enga-
ged in. The Spirit can do every thing, and He works
freely. The thought of being an instrument in His
hand is comforting indeed ; but to think of the ministry
without that, is, beyond expression, dark and dismal."*

" Many parts of North Wales never heard the sound
of the Gospel. The work, therefore, in which Mr
Charles was now engaged, was in a great measure a mis-
sionary work. No more knowledge of God, or of his
Word, was to be found in most places, than in a hea-
then land. The immoralities and ungodliness which
prevailed were such as might be expected from this state
of spiritual ignorance. The Bible was almost an unknown
book, seldom to be met with, especially in the houses of
the poor. In many parishes, not even ten could be found
capable of reading it ; and in several parishes in Angle-
sea, not even two or three. Where darkness exists, the
works of darkness will be carried on."f

In 1785, Mr Charles first began to organize his cir-
culating schools ; and twenty-three years later, he gives
the following account of them in a letter : —

" Bala, September 1808.
" In my travels through different parts of North Wales
about twenty years ago (in 1785), I perceived that the
state of the poor of the country in general was so low as
to religious knowledge, that in many parts not one per-
son in twenty was capable of reading the scriptures, and
in some districts hardly an individual could be found who
had received any instruction in reading. I found then',
and still do find, daily proofs of the ignorance of the poor
people who cannot read, and have never been catecheti-
cally instructed, even where constant preaching is not
wanting. This discovery pained me beyond what I can
express, and made me think seriously of some remedy,
effectual and speedy for the redress of this grievance. I

• Life of Charlee.— P. 216. f H»d- 249 «

CHARLES, OF BALA. 117

accordingly proposed to a few friends to set a subscrip-
tion on foot to pay the wages of a teacher, who was to
be moved eircuitously from one place to another, to in-
struct the poor in reading, and in the first principles of
Christianity by catechising them. At first only one
teacher was employed. As the funds increased, so in
proportion the number of teachers was enlarged, till they
amounted to twenty. Some of the first teachers I was
obliged to instruct myself, and these afterwards instruct-
ed others, sent to them to learn to be schoolmasters.

" The fruit of these circulating schools are our nume-
rous Sunday schools all oyer the country ; for without
the former, we could not have found teachers to carry
on the latter."*

* * « I also set up Sunday and night-schools for those
whose occupations and poverty prevented them from at-
tending the day-schools. Whatever we attempted of this
nature succeeded wonderfully; till the whole country
was filled with schools of some sort or another, and all
were more or less under tuition. The blessed effects
were correspondent. A general concern for eternal things
was manifested in many large districts. Many hundreds
were awakened to a sense of sin and of their need of a Sa-
viour ; and are now, I have every reason to believe, his
faithful followers. The schools are still carried on, and
the effects are the same in a greater or less degree. The
numbers of teachers increase or diminish according to my
finances. All the income 1 derive from the chapel I
serve, 1 devote wholly to their support ; being supported
myself by the industry of my wife. 1 pay every teacher
L.12 per annum. They continue half a-year or three
quarters in a place, then they are removed to another.
Three quarters of a-year are found fully sufficient to teach
our children to read the Bible well in the Welsh lan-
guage. I visit the schools myself, and catechise them
publicly* I have the unspeakable satisfaction to see the
general aspect of the country most amazingly changed.

" The wilderness blossoms as the rose, and the thirsty

* Life of Charles— P. 257.

118 WALES.

land is become springs of water. Through the school*
and the preaching of the gospel the spread of divine
knowledge is become universal. Bless the Lord, O my
soul ! " *

What soon became a peculiar feature in these schools,
was the attendance of adults as scholars. On this subject
Mr Charles says : — " The attention is engaged with such
intenseness that in some instances which 1 have known,
the greatest part of the night is spent in learning chap-
ters, or in searching the scriptures on points given them
to be elucidated by scripture passages. All will easily
perceive how rapid the progress in the acquisition of di-
vine knowledge must be, when the mind is bo attentively
engaged, if assisted by proper instruction. It has been
great and very rapid. I have known young people emerge
at once as it were from a state of idleness, profaneness, '
and ignorance, to diligence, sobriety, and pleasing atten-
tion to divine things. They are delighted with the work,
and you may distinguish those who are thus engaged,
from the idle and ignorant, by the comfort and joy mani-
fested in their countenances.

" We have also this year held associations of the differ-
ent schools. They meet in some central place to be pub-
licly catechised. Three meetings of this kind have been
held in North Wales, and three in South Wales. A sub*
ject is given to every school, on which they are examined,
and which they are to elucidate by repeating appropriate
passages from the sacred writings. At the appointed
time — generally a Sabbath-day — the children of the dif-
ferent schools assemble, accompanied by their teachers*
Some of the schools have walked ten miles by eight in
the morning. The children being scattered in their dif-
ferent habitations over the country — for they dwell not
together in hamlets as in England — all meet at an as*
signed place, and at the appointed hour pray and sing *
verse of a hymn together, and then march cheerfully and
orderly for the place of destination.

" As no place of worship is spacious enough to contain

* Life of Charlea.— P. 260.

CHARLES, OF BALA. 119

the immense concourse of people who attend on these oc-
casions, we have been obliged to erect stages out of doors,
ia the fields, a large one for the children, containing two
or three schools at a time, another for the catechists, op-
posite to that of the children, at fifteen or eighteen yards
distance— the space between is lor the assembled congre-
gation to hear. We begin the work early in the morning,
and the whole day is spent in these examinations. Every
examination lasts three or four hours, and is generally
concluded by an address to the children and the congre-
gation. In the short intervals between the examinations,
the children of each school are conducted by their teach-
ers into a room engaged for the purpose, to partake of a
little refreshment ; and at the appointed time they are
reconducted to the place of meeting. We have had, on
these occasions, from fifteen to twenty schools assembled
together. Hitherto these associations have been most
profitable. The previous preparation gives employment
for two months to all the youth of both sexes, in which
they engage with great eagerness and delight. The pub-
lic examinations, we have every reason to conclude, are
also very profitable to the hearers assembled. This is
clear from their great attention, and the feelings pro-
duced by hearing the responses of the children. 1 have
seen great meltings, and tears among them. When the
work of the day is over, the children are reconducted by
their teachers to their respective houses, or committed to
the care of their parents. Every thing has been con-
ducted hitherto with great order and decorum, and the
utility of these meetings has been ascertained beyond a
doubt. The schools acquire publicity and importance by
these public exhibitions. They animate both teachers
and children. They bring others in who have hitherto
been negligent, and powerfully excite the people to set
up new schools where there are none,
■ " I shall conclude this long letter by adding, that many
children and also grown up persons have manifested a
serious concern for their souls, as the effect of the in*
struction they have received in the schools, and somfl

120 WALES.

hundreds in different parts of the country hare joined
our religious societies."*

" Thousands of young people all over the country hare
at this time their attention engaged upon divine things.
They are learning catechisms and chapters from the Bible
with wonderful facility. U has been my delightful work,
since I left London in December, to catechise publicly
every Sunday, and to hear them repeating chapters before
thousands of people. Whole families, young and old,
the governors and the governed, learn the catechism*
and chapters of the Bible together." • • •

" The Sunday schools and the public examination of
them have undoubtedly done wonders in Wales, and
have succeeded in some places in moralizing the people,
when all other means failed. One case, in particular, of
this kind was very remarkable. There was a certain
town which seemed to grow worse and worse, increasing
daily in all kinds of wickedness, though the gospel had
been regularly preached there for more than twenty years.
The people, young as well as old, became more and more
depraved. They ran into all manner of excesses, espe-
cially at the annual wakes. The most faithful and awful
warnings were delivered from the pulpit, but with no ef-
fect. The state of things here was mentioned to Mr
Charles. Having considered the subject, he made up his
mind to make an attempt to storm this stronghold of Sa-
tan in a way different from preaching. About two months
before the wakes, he sent word to the teachers of their
Sunday schools, requesting them to get the children to
search the Bible for texts which prohibit, directly or indi-
rectly, such evil practices as dancing, drunkenness, forni-
cation, &c, and to commit them to memory ; saying that
they might expect him there at the feast to catechise the
children. The young people set to work, and there was a
great deal of talk in the town and neighbourhood about the
subject. When the time arrived, Mr Charles went there ;
and most of the people of the place, led by curiosity perhaps

• Life of Charles P. 270.

CHARLES, OF BALA. 121

in a great measure, went to hear what the children had
to say on these subjects. The meeting began, as usual,
with singing and prayer. Then Mr C. began to ask
them questions on the points given them to learn. * Is
dancing, my dear children, a sin ?' ' Yes/ said one, em-
phatically, ' it was owing to dancing that the head of
John the Baptist was cut off.' ' Is drunkenness set forth
as bad and sinful in Scripture ? ' c Yes/ answered an-
other, and repeated these words, — * Wo unto them that
follow strong drink; that continue until night till the
wine inflame them, and the harp and the viol, the tabret
and the pipe are in their feasts ; but they regard not the
work of the Lord, neither consider the operations of his
hands. 9 Isaiah, v. 11, 12. — In this way he proceeded
with them concerning the other sins, and the answers
were given with great propriety and seriousness. The
people began to hold down their heads, and appeared to
be much affected. Observing this, he addressed them in
the kindest manner, and exhorted them by all means to
leave off their sinful practices, to relinquish the works of
darkness, and to attend to the concerns of their never-
dying souls ; to learn the Word of God after the example
of the children, and to try to seek superior pleasures and
a better world. The effect was so great that all went
home, and the houses of revelling were completely for-
saken. The following day the harper was met going
home by a person on the road, who, surprised to see him
leaving the place so soon, asked him what was the rea-
son. ' Some parson/ said he, ' with a black cap on* (Mr
Charles wore a black cap), * has been catechising there,
and persuaded the young people not to attend the feast.'
Poor fellow, he went home quite disappointed ! " *

Such are some specimens of the preparatory work of
sowing the seeds of knowledge which was used before
the great revival of true religion which took place in
North Wales, beginning in the year 1791. We now
proceed to make extracts, exhibiting the seed springing
up and bearing the fruits of repentance towards God, and

•Life of Charlei P. 21 5.

122" WALES.

faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. We quote from Mr
Charles's own letters.

" Bala, September, 1791.

. " You inquire about the state of the churches in Wales.
I have nothing but what is favourable to communicate.
We had lately a very comfortable association at Pwllheli.
Some thousands attended, more than ever were seen be-
fore. And here, at Bala, we have had a very great*
powerful, and glorious outpouring of the Spirit on the
people in general, especially on the children and young
people. Some of the wildest and most inconsiderate
young people of both sexes have been awakened. Their
convictions have been very clear and powerful, and in
some instances so deep as to bring them to the brink of
despair. Their consolations have also been equally strong.
If the Lord should be graciously pleased to continue the-
work, as it has prevailed some weeks past, the devil's
kingdom will be in ruins in this neighbourhood. Ride
on, ride on, thou King of Glory ! is the present v cry of
my soul, day and night. I verily believe that the Lord
means to give the kingdom of darkness a dreadful shake ;
for he takes off its pillars. Those that were foremost in
the service of Satan and rebellion against God are now
the foremost in seeking salvation through the blood of
the Lamb. It is an easy work to preach the Gospel of
the Kingdom here at this time. Divine truths have
their own infinite weight and importance on the minds of
the people. Beams of divine light, together with divine
irresistible energy, accompany every truth delivered. It
is glorious to see how the stoutest hearts are bowed
down, and the hardest melted. I would not have been;
without seeing what I have lately seen, no not for the
world.

" These are the blessed things I have to relate to you,,
my dear brother, respecting poor Wales. The charity
schools here are abundantly blessed. Children, that were
befbretime like jewels buried in rubbish, now appear with
divine lustre and transcendent beauty. Little children,
from six to twelve years old, are affected, astonished, and

CHARLES, Off BALA. l2#

overpowered; their young minds, day and night, are-
filled with nothing but soul concerns. All I say is mat-
ter of fact. I have not exaggerated in the least degree,
nor related more than a small part of the whole. The
Lord hath done great things for us, and to him be all the
praise. *

An eminent Scotch minister, hearing of the good
tidings from Wales, enquired of Mr Charles further par-
ticulars ; and in his letter say*

" Edinburgh, March 11, 1792.

c * No doubt you know that a similar revival took place
in this country about fifty years ago. Many were at that
happy era brought to the knowledge and real experience
of the truth. But there were some who afterwards turned
tway from feeding beside the Shepherd's tents, thereby
declaring that their former profession was not altogether
sterling, and giving occasion to many to condemn the
whole that was done, though I have seen several living
incontestable witnesses of the solidity of the work, whose
Christianity I doubted less than my own. It is amazing
how some, even of the Lord's people, love to cavil and
oarp at that which others admire and praise the Lord
for."

To this Mr Charles answered —

" Bala, May 2, 1792.

•■ " That it was the work of God, I am not left to doubt
in the least degree. It carries along with it every scrip-
tural satisfactory evidence that we can possibly desire-—
such as deep conviction of sin, of righteousness, of judg-
ment — great reformation of manners — great love for and
delight in the Word of God, in prayer, in spiritual con-
versation, and divine ordinances. These, even in young
persons, occupy the place, and employ the time, that was
spent in vain diversions and amusements. No harps but
the golden harps of which John speaks have been played
on in this neighbourhood for several months past. The

• Ufe of Charles P. 277.

i

124 WALES.

craft is not only in danger, but entirely destroyed and
abolished. The little stone has broken in pieces and
wholly destroyed these ensnaring 1 hinderances. But I am
far from expecting that all those who hare experienced
these impressions, are savingly wrought upon, and really
converted. If that were the case, all the country must
have been converted ; for at one time there were but
few who had not felt awful impressions on their minds,
producing foreboding fears respecting their future exist*
ence in another world. It was a most solemn time, in-
deed ! I never saw a livelier picture of the state of men's
minds at the day of judgment, according to their respec-
tive conditions. That awful dispensation lasted but for"
a few weeks. But the ministration of the Word is still
lively and powerful, and fresh awakenings take place,'
though not so numerous as at first. Perhaps it will not
he known till the day of judgment how many of these
new converts are actually brought into a state of salva-
tion, nor who they are. But hitherto we have eyerj
reason to be thankful for the good progress they continue
to make. Among so many there must be great variety,
and we may have better hopes of some than others ; but
hitherto none have turned away from feeding by the Shep-
herd's tents.

" As to the further spread of the work, the prospect
in our country is in general very pleasing. In Caernar-
vonshire and Anglesea the congregations are very nu-
merous. Thousands flock together at the sound of the
Gospel trumpet, and hear with great earnestness and
attention. Awakenings also are frequent ; but as to any
extraordinary outpouring of the Spirit, there is none at
present but in two places, besides this neighbourhood ;
and in those places it does not carry with it the strong
marks of irresistible power and convincing demonstration
which attended it here. The report of what had been
going on in this place awakened the attention of the
whole country, and filled the churches every where with
the spirit of thanksgiving and prayer. The beginning
was so glorious, that I cannot but think that it precedes

CHARLES, OF BALA. 125

great things. The churches every where are, if I may so
speak, in labour ; and I cannot but expect that a ' man-
child is to be born.' They are prepared, they are pray-
ing ; they are waiting and longing for his coming. He
has indeed done already great things in this principality.
" Within these fifty years there have been five or six
very great awakenings — a land of darkness and the sha-
dow of death hath seen great light* O may we live to
see still greater things ! Your saying that a similar work
took place in your country about fifty years ago, has en-
kindled a spirit of prayer in me for the return of your
jubilee. I am persuaded that, except we are favoured with
frequent revivals, and a strong and powerful work of the
Spirit, we shall in a great degree degenerate, and have
only a name to live ; religion will lose its vigour ; the
ministry will hardly retain its lustre and glory, and ini-
quity will of course abound. I am far from supposing
this to be the case in your country. I am only speaking
of the thing itself. Scotland, I know, in ages past has
been a highly favoured country. I hope it still continues
so ; but I am perfectly ignorant of the present state of
religion in it. May the good Lord hasten that blessed
time when the kingdoms of the world shall become the
kingdoms of the Lord and of his Christ ! I beg my love
to all Christian friends with you, and an interest in all
your prayers. Blessed be God that I have an Advocate
with the Father. He sees, commiserates, and can relieve
and succour as necessity requires. From this joyful
consideration alone proceeds my resolution to go on. You
may well suppose that while God is among us, Satan is
not asleep. He is alive, and goes about, possessed of his
usual diabolical dispositions. In the church and out of
the church, he is always plotting some mischief. I would
wish to be watchful, to observe all his motions and
machinations. The God of peace shall bruise him shortly
under our feet. I am your unworthy companion in the
kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ." *

* Life of Charles.— P. 281.

i$6 WALES.

" Bala, Jan. 1794.
" I have received your favour of November 24, and
.must request your pardon for being so slow in answering
you. My only apology is my many avocations, which
are so numerous that I have not that time to pay proper
attention to friends which I could wish. As to the pre-
sent state of religion in this country, through distin-
guishing and unspeakable mercy I have nothing to
complain of unless I complain of myself; for which there
is abundant cause. In the course of last year the al-
mighty power of the gospel has been most gloriously
manifested in different parts of our country. I think
that, in general, it never presented a more promising
aspect. There was, last year, a very great and general
awakening through a very large and populous district of
Caernarvonshire. In the space of three months some
hundreds were brought under concern about their souls.
I travelled last March through that part of the country,
and the prospect still continues delightful indeed. Ah,
my dear sir, it is a melodious sound, yes, in the ears of
God himself, to hear poor perishing sinners crying out,
' What must we do to be saved ? ' But this was the
sound I heard in almost every congregation, as I lately
passed through that part of the country. The subjects of
this work are much the same as here at Bala ; children
and young people, from eight or ten to thirty years of
age. The effects also on the country at large are very
similar — a general reformation of manners — the most
diligent attendance on the means of grace, private and
public — thirst after Divine knowledge, such as is practi-
cal and spiritual. The sound of the gospel brings
heaven to their thirsty souls, whilst the miserable cap-
tives of sin and misery are set at liberty. Here at IJala,
through mercy, we go on well, and have much cause for
thankfulness ; though not favoured with the wonderful
scenes with which we were gratified two years ago.
Most of those of whom we had any satisfaction as to a
work of deep conviction on their minds, have stood their
ground amazingly well. We have lost very few of them ;
^ and many, respecting whom we had no satisfaction at

CHARLES, OF BALA. 127

first, have come on well. At first, perhaps, only a
little terrified, yet being by this fright brought to attend
the preaching of the word, they have been gradually
enlightened and wrought upon, and are now hopeful
characters in our church. There is a work going on
among us still, though not so powerfully as at the period
alluded to above. We are continually increasing, and
our congregations continue as large, if not larger, than
ever; and at times the Word seems to have a wonderful
effect. I must also add, with sorrow, that a great many,
who have felt most powerful impressions on their minds,
have been entirely lost ; they are quite fallen off. They
still come to hear; but hearing is all. But some even
of these have been again visited by the Lord more
effectually than at first; and we have received them
again with joy. We have had many instances of young
children who, having once experienced these powerful
impressions, have had them again renewed, and are now
in the church, comforting our hearts with very promising
hopes. ***•**«

" I have drawn up a little form, comprehending the
first principles of Christianity, according to which they
are instructed. In some of the schools we have had ge-
neral awakenings among all the children. They have
been the means of sobering the minds of young people,
of drawing their attention to the Bible, and of giving
them a taste for reading ; and the next step will be to at-
tend preaching, which is seldom without producing some
effect on their minds. We take great care that the teach-
ers be men of piety, and of zeal for the conversion of sin-
ners. We have but one point in view in these institu-
tions, that is the salvation of souls. We endeavour to set
this point before them in all its infinite importance, as
far surpassing all other matters whatever. This is what
we aim to do ; but, ah ! how little would all avail, were
it not for the powerful agency of the Holy Spirit. Blessed
be God, we see Him evidently and gloriously at work
among us, — nevermore so than at the present time, taking
the country at large. Bless the Lord on our behalf, and
pray for a continuance of His loving kindness* "MV^ \kn<&

128 WALES.

to all who love the Lord Jesus. He is our cbmmott
friend. O, what a friend ! Blessed he God for Him.
He is our all. Who would not serve Him, and live to
Him ! He deserves more than we can give Him to all
eternity." *

" Bala, 1813.

" It is a high favour to he in any degree employed in
forwarding so important and glorious a cause. I rejoice
to find that your heart is so warmly engaged in it* I
pray the Lord that hy fresh supplies from the fountain
of all good, it may continue warm, vigorous, and active,
till it ceases to heat. It is a very favourable season to
work, for the Lord, in these happy days, crowns the la-
bours of all, however weak, with some degree of success*
I have great expectations from the rising generation in
our country. They are trained up to activity and ex-
ertion. The old professors, many of them have accus-
tomed themselves to an idle way of spending their time.
They cannot, without great difficulty, break off old ha-
bits, and are not easily brought under the yoke ; but the
yoTing work with skill, diligence, and cheerfulness. In a
religious and moral point of view, the state of our pea-
santry is gradually and continually improving. Fresh
advances are made every year. Hundreds of children and
young people have this year joined our societies. On
September 27, the children and young people of a whole
district were publicly examined by me in our chapel. I
never witnessed so affecting a scene. They could hardly
make their responses, being so overcome with weeping,
and the whole congregation was similarly affected. All
these young people experienced religious impressions on
their minds within these nine months, and a very striking*
change has taken place in their moral conduct. May
God make the work on their minds deep and lasting ! In
repeating scriptures descriptive of the misery of the un-
godly who die in their sins, they wept bitterly." f

This is amongst the last letters in print in which this

• Life of Chirles.— P. 287. t Ibid P. 380.

CHARLES, OF BALA. 129

servant of God expressed his ardent concern for the ad-
vancement of the Kingdom of Grace. We give the very
last within our reach, written little more than three
month* before his death : —

" Bala, June 24, 1814.

« I comfort myself much with the thought of Mr

A *8 care and activity about the juvenile and adult

schools. It is a very important work, and its success
is connected with the welfare of immortal beings for
ever ; therefore every exertion to promote it is import-
ant. Care for them is interwoven with all the feelings
of my mind ; and while my pulse beats at all, I cannot be
indifferent about their success. We had, last week, our
great annual (Association) meeting here. The congre-
gation, though always large, was more numerous by some
thousands than we have ever witnessed before. The
meeting lasted part of four days. There were fourteen
discourses delivered, and four private meetings held.
Great harmony prevailed in the private meetings, and
love, which is * the bond of perfectness.' The public dis-
courses were edifying and powerful, and commanded the
attention of between 15,000 and 20,000 people without
intermission. The order and decorum which prevailed
among such a large concourse of people was great and plea-
sing. No signs of intemperance or disorder were perceived
among them. Nothing but the hand of God could have
preserved so much order among so many corrupt sin-
ners for so long together. It was the Lord's doing, and
it is marvellous, surpassingly marvellous, in our eyes.
When I was young, the Lord brought me into his house,
and goodness and mercy have followed me all my days ;
and I have been preserved by undeserved grace to see
these wonders of His kingdom. Great additions have
been made to our churches in general, last year, about
2000 in all. The Bible Societies, the schools, and every
good work set on foot, succeed among us ; and we hope
the kingdom of the little stone will soon fill our land.
May thy kingdom come speedily, O Lord I " *

• Life of Charles, p. 353.
I

ISO WALES.

[1814.] In September, this year, this man of Got*
sickened, when from home. He was desirous to reach
Bala once more ; and when that favour was granted him,
he said, on entering his dwelling, " Now I have nothing
to do but to die." This was the utterance of a heart
contented with all the divine appointments in reference to
him, and willing to lay his labours aside. He- was not
yet old, and might have moved about among his populous
congregations for years, being aged only fifty-nine. But
he had lived a long life, compared to other men, of holy
contemplation, heavenly communion, and toilsome exer-
tion. Yet of this he made no account in the eye of the
Head of the Church, in whose .sight all his works had
been carried on. He frequently said to the friend who
-sat up with him, " Charles is only a poor sinner, a poor
unworthy sinner. I know I cannot be saved without
forgiveness ; but there is forgiveness with God." He
said several times, " I have settled the few things I
have in this world, and have committed my soul to the
Lord ; ( and I know whom I have believed, and am per*
suaded that he is able to keep that which I have corn-*
mitted to him against that day/ " Thus departed the
apostle of North Wales, and thus did " Bala bah " lose
the man who travailed for her souls. Yet though he be
fallen asleep, some remain until this day. Why should
it be that man is consistent only in his unfaithfulness ;
that when a great instrument expires, his work melts
away, and the stream of grace which fructified the region
and made the wilderness and solitary place glad, seems
to have sunk into the barren sand, or to have been
exhaled to its native heaven ? Is it to be ever thus, that
the Lord magnifies his respect for prayer, by sending
down blessings in reply to the petitions of his solitary
servants ? That, as he dealt with Israel of old, so now
he deals ? As long as Moses pleads he cannot but bless.
He says in his indignation, " Let me alone, that I may
destroy them, and blot out their name from under hea-
ven." Nevertheless, when his servant cries mightily to
him, his avenging wrath is stayed, and his people are
blessed. Do those who believe on his. name see this and

CHARLES! OV BALA. 131

ielieve h, and are they yet slow to pray, and slack in
waiting for a blessing ? Are those gardens of the Lord
to have their walls broken down, and their fertile places
laid waste, for lack of faithful men to sustain them ? O
let it not be. Let our people sustain our teachers, and
uphold their hands in prayer, till all know the Lord from
the least to the greatest, and till the Spirit be poured out
on the young and the aged, and till the kingdoms of this
•world become the kingdoms of our God and of his Christ.
' We conclude the notices of this good man by taking
up the tender and mournful strain of the historian of the
Calvinistic Methodists in Wales. He mentions, that
when, in 1785, the aged Daniel Rowlands heard him
preach, he exultingly exclaimed, " Charles is a gift be-
stowed by the Lord on North Wales ! " " Yea," truly adds
ilia admiring biographer, " and on South Wales also."

" We cannot, however, pass on without saying some-
thing of one, the Rev. Thomas Charles, A. B., of Bala,
who will not be forgotten when the billow of time shall
have cast many a generation yet unborn on the shores of
eternity; the loss of whose labours from the pulpit and by
the press has caused Wales to assume the widow's mournful
attire, and of which she can never be induced to divest
herself. Though we have mentioned him last, it is only
that we may the more uninterruptedly indulge our griefs,
and give full vent to our sorrows, when we contemplate
the removal of so excellent and so revered a parent. We
may with the greatest propriety say of him, as Solomon
does of the virtuous woman, * Many have done virtuous-
ly, but thou excellest them all/ " *

We close this account, which gives but a few hints of
what the Lord hath wrought by reviving his church in
the Principality of Wales, by extracting a few stanzas
from a poem written by Mr Jones of Liverpool, first in
the Welsh language, and afterwards, at the request of
friends, translated by him into English, but still retaining
the measure which suits the beautiful old air to which it
is adapted ; and also retaining the Welsh rule of versiti-

* History of Cal vim's tic Methodita, $. \3.

182 WELSH POBTRY. ;

cation, which does not, as the English, require that the
penultimate syllable should rhyme as well as the last.
This renders it less harmonious to an English ear. The
burden of the verses, which is also the bur den, and name
of the old air, is retained untranslated, but admits of being
rendered, " By night"— " During the night '!— or « All
through the night," as best suits the sense.

The poem is called " God's Defence of his People,"
and, beginning with the earliest history, assembles toge-
ther the times when their deliverances and supports were
communicated during the night, till the reader feels asto-
nished by their multitude and truth. And one cannot
but feel, that, instead of driving the harpers out of the
land, as if they resembled the wizards and those who had
familiar spirits in Saul's days, we should rather anticipate
the time when the bards of the mountains shall minister
no longer to the levity and folly of their countrymen, but,
tuning their strains like David, sing to the glory of God
and the edification of his people.

The verses are taken almost at random ; and cheer us
with the thought, that, though W. Williams is now
tuning his harp in heaven, Wales is not left without a
bard whose songs still assist and enliven her devotions.

" Jacob once lay on a fallow,

Ar hyd y nos,
Far from home ; stones were his pillow,

Ar hyd y nos.
There he dreamed he saw a ladder
Joining heaven and earth together,
Angels on it passed each other,

Ar hyd y nos.

" Where, said he, have I been lodging,

Ar hyd y nos,
What great wonders were unfolding ?

Ar hyd y n6s.
Dreadful is this place and holy,
God's own house — the gate of glory ;
Yea, in Bethel I did tarry,

Ar hyd y nos.

WELSH POKTKT. 183

" In the lions* den ley Daniel,

Ar hyd y not,
But his guardian was God's angel,

Arhyd y nos.-
The fierce lions durst not harm him,
Safely with them he could rest him,
Though King Darius' sleep had left him,

Ar hyd y nos.

" Who doth fear the Lord among us,

Ar hyd y nos,
Harkening to the voice of Jesus ?

Ar hyd y nos.
Tho' in darkness he doth labour,
Sees no light and finds no ■uceour,
Let him trust in God his Saviour,

Ar hyd y nos.

*' None shall hurt or injure Zion,

Ar hyd y nos,
Her stronghold is God's salvation,

Ar hyd y nos.
For a cloud by day shall shade her,
Lest the sun or heat should harm her,
And a shining fire shall light her,

Ar hyd y nos.

*' While the wicked ever toileth,

Ar hyd y nos,
God's beloved safely sleepeth,

Ar hyd y nos.
When I wake I'll sing * salvation,'
This is all my consolation,
And my reins give me instruction,

Ar hyd y nos.

" To see Jesus I am longing,

Ar hyd y nos,

And for Heav'n I'm always panting,

Ar hyd y nos.

134 WELSH POETRY.

When I shall have passed o'er Jordan,
From the reach of sin and Satan,
I shall sing in happy, Canaan,

' Adieu to night'"

A WARNING TO CARELESS SINNERS.

Oh, ye careless ones, consider

What of the night !

Dreadful gloom awaits the sinner ;

How long the night !

All your joy will turn to mourning,

And your mirth to bitter wailing ;

In Hell-fire there is no resting

All through the night

r 135 ]

CHAPTER IX.

REFLECTIONS.

In reviewing the few English and Welsh revivals
here presented, the most prominent fact is, that they were
all 9 excepting those under Walker and Venn, brought
about by methods differing- considerably from each other,
though the truth which operated, and the ultimate effects
produced, were the same. The zeal of the pastors and
the necessities of the people, alike concurred to induce a
departure from common rules ; and those forms which,
it periods of supineness, are found sufficient and satisfac*
tory, become, under the urgency of fervent desires after
religious instruction, barriers and impediments, which
Strong necessity overleaps.

Rowlands, Grimshaw, and Berridge were suffered to
remain in the Established Church, though none of them
escaped his portion of rebuke and censure for irregulari-
ties ; and in the path of the Welsh Boanerges, as well as
in that of the eccentric apostle of Haworth, there sprung
up many dissenters of various denominations, yet all
of them adhering to the hope of salvation in Jesus Christ
alone. Whitefield, Wesley, and Charles were cast out of
the church solely on account of breaches of form. Their
influence was thus more widely extended, since by being
deprived of the hope of the usual promotion and support
to be derived from man, they had nothing to lose, and
were called upon the more zealously and fearlessly to de-
vote themselves to the service of God. And thus, what
Dr Chalmers has termed " the stationary apparatus of
country where Christianity is established," was m<
materially aided and quickened by what he calls " a moi
able one," which he contemplates as adapted to missu
wry exertion amongst the heathen alone.

136 REFLECTIONS.

There was a period in the Church of England, from the
time of the restoration of the Stuarts, when conformity was
so much the object of all those who wished to overcome the
confusion produced by the conflicts of Papists, Puritans,
and Episcopalians, that its pastors forgot the vital and spi-
ritual parts of religion in contending for its external order.
They passed by the poor soul dead in trespasses and sins,
while uith a refined and cold style they addressed the
reason, and flattered the pride of man. They employed,
without comprehending it, a liturgy happily ardent with
the contrition, humiliation, and prayerfulness which the;
Gospel alone can teach ; and immediately after presented,
to their hearers a cold and motionless, but symmetrical and
complimentary essay, which must have led them to won-
der, if they reflected at all, at the humility of the ex~
pressions, and the intense earnestness of the appeals in
their previous prayers. Berridge, in his " Cnristiaiij
World Unmasked," says, " men are rightly treated in the.
reading desk, and called by their proper names of miser-
able sinners ; but in the pulpit they are complimented on
the dignity of their earthly, sensual, devilish nature ; are,
flattered with a princely will and power to save them-
selves, and are ornamented with a lusty badge of merit*"
From this dead sea of soulless conformity, which might
tranquillize the fears of the mere lovers of order, the
Church was awakened by the instrumentality of such
men as Venn, Cadogan, Newton, Romaine, and Simeon,
among those who adhered strictly to her regulations. And
among those whose zeal or fearlessness led them to a
wider and more extended style of exertion, of such as
Berridge, Fletcher, Whitfield, Wesley, and Hill. And
however observers may have differed in opinion as to the
modes of operating upon lost sinners, all have been con-
strained to confess, that the spirit of God owned the
work of each after his peculiar manner. Whether the
first token of spiritual life was in many, as during the
early preaching of Berridge, and in much of Wesley's
course, an overpowering emotion which enfeebled the
frame, and produced fainting or convulsion; so that,
" falling down before the Church they worshipped God*

REFLECTIONS. 137

and reported tbat God was in the preachers of a truth"
(1 Cor. xiv. 25) ; or whether it was by silent tears, or a
quiet and unobserved reception of saving convictions, it is
certain that the spirit of all truth accompanied the word,
and that thousands of souls, after witnessing a good con-
fession, have, by their instrumentality, entered into the joy
of their Lord. Tens of thousands of British Christians are
at this day the offspring, and have been trained by those
converts. Christians ought, from these varied operations,'
to learn a lesson of distrust in their own opinions, and of
lowliness in the contemplation of their own mistakes, by
the conviction that many even of their cherished views may
be tinctured with error. The Head of the Church bears
with our folly, and will show it to ourselves when we are
delivered from this world of prejudice and misapprehen-
sion. And in the mean time, wherever regeneration and
justification by faith in Christ, and sanctification by the
Holy Spirit, are taught, there He unites himself with his
ministers, as making them fellow workers with him ;
and there souls are won, in spite of all those minor dif-
ferences in doctrine, and those variations of Church
order, which have excited so much anxiety and heart-
burning among" men.

Independent of the really weighty errors in doctrine
which have divided the Church from the earliest ages,
and assumed the form and name of such a variety of
win*, that both memory and imagination flag in recalling
them— and independent of the surprising emphasis laid
by some Episcopalians on the transmission of their divine
ordination from St Peter, through all the corruptions
and errors of Rome, to the present day — it is curious to
mark the power that habit has on even rational and sen-
sible minds. Men trained in college halls, and accus-
tomed to the magnificence of cathedrals, and to be sum-
moned by chimes of bells to their religious services under
roofs of consecrated cedar, scarcely feel themselves jus-
tified in using the canopy of heaven, or the amphitheatre
of a mountain side, or the free and direct light of the
blessed sun, for the purpose of worshipping; the God
who created this glorious natural tempta fo? \N& ^*&fe

138 REFLECTIONS.

of man. Their souls shudder at the disorderliness of
John Fletcher or John Berridge, in giving notice of
a field -preaching from their pulpits, and inviting their
hearers to attend. John Wesley's remarks on his first
attempts at field-preaching are genuine and simple, exhi-
biting a mind overcoming his taste, habits, and will, in a
conscientious pursuit of duty.

" March 31st, 1739. — In the evening I reached Bris-
tol, and met Mr Whitfield there. I could scarce reconcile
myself at first to this strange way of preaching in the fields,
of which he set me an example on Sunday ; having been
all my life-time, till very lately, so tenacious of every point
relating to decency and order, that I should have thought
the saving of souls almost a sin if it had not been done
in a church/'

" April 1st. — In the evening, Mr Whitfield being
gone, I began expounding our Lord's Sermon on the
Mount — (one pretty remarkable precedent of field- preach-
ing'; I suppose there were churches at that time also) ;—
to a little society which was accustomed to meet once
or twice a-week in Nicholas Street."

" Monday, 2d. — At four in the afternoon I submitted
to be more vile, and proclaimed in the highway the glad
tidings of salvation, speaking from a little eminence in a
ground adjoining to the city, to about three thousand
people." *

Men can hardly own that souls awakened under such
circumstances have been won by the same gospel, and
feel themselves obliged to form something very like
apologies for the blessed Lord himself, that mountainy
ship, or wilderness were as welcome to him for the pur-
pose of teaching perishing souls as were the synagogue or
the temple. Yet it appears that wherever a more than
usually powerful work of the spirit is vouchsafed, it is
either the result of extra* official efforts, or leads to them.
The Lord stirs up his people to watching, mutual con-
sultation, and prayer, as before that blessed revival at
the Kirk of Shotts ; and manifests his attention to their

• .Wesley's Journal, vol* \. ip, 11 B. ■'•

HEFLECTIONS. 139

petitions by a shower of blessings ; or he comes among
them unexpectedly, and arouses them suddenly, as by the
preaching of Whitfield and Wesley among the Kings-
wood colliers ; and immediately watching, mutual consul-
tation, and prayer follow. Sabbath-day opportunities
then are felt to be too rare, churches too limited in their
capacity of accommodation, and usual religious services
too scanty to satisfy the hungering and thirsting after the
word of life ; and thus a necessity is laid on those whose
part it is to instruct and comfort, to use methods and
hours unemployed before.

These extra efforts, of which various examples are
here presented to the reader, have been the means of
drawing down more tokens of the favour of the divine
Spirit, or at least in a more remarkable manner, than the
beaten track of Sabbath and pulpit services. Need we
refer to the school examinations at Bala, and all over
North Wales, by Mr Charles and his coadjutors, where
much important truth was conveyed for the first time to
the grown up population, by means of the answers of
their children ; or to the tent-preachings and " speaking
to the question " in the Highlands of Scotland ; or to
the evening and early morning services of some of the
lively itinerants named above ? To these we might add,
what we have good reason to know of the fruits of
weekly prayer meetings in England and Scotland, where
the pastor has presided, and selected missionary intelli-
gence) or passages from authors, which have been refresh-
ing to his own spirit, or accounts of the answers to prayer,
and the manifest work of the spirit in other ages, or in
other churches. Of these unofficial and unusual methods
a rery interesting example was witnessed by the Rev.
John Fletcher of Madley, when he was travelling on the
border country which unites France and Switzerland, in
1778. He describes it in a letter as follows : — " I was
better satisfied in passing through a part of the vale
which belongs to the King of France. I saw a prodi-
gious concourse of people, and supposed they kept a fair*
but was agreeably surprised to find three missionaries,
who went, about as itinerant preachers to \&Yp fofe t^^rita.

I

140 REFLECTIONS.

clergy. They had been there already some days, and?
were three brothers, who preached morning and evening*
The evening service opened by what they called a con*
ference. One of the missionaries took the pulpit, and
the parish priest proposed questions to him, which he
answered at full length, and in a very edifying manner;
The subject was the unlawfulness and the mischief of
those methods by which persons of different sexes lay
snares for each other, and corrupt each other's morals*
The subject was treated with delicacy, propriety, and
truth. The method was admirably well calculated to
draw and fix the attention of a mixed multitude. This
conference being ended, another missionary took the pul*
pit; His text was our Lord's description of the day o£
judgment. Before the sermon all those who could kneel
for the press did kneel, and sung a French hymn to beg m
blessing on the word ; and indeed it was blessed. Am
awful attention was visible upon most, and for a good part
of the discourse the voice of the preacher was almost
lost amid the cries and bitter wailings of the audience;
When the outcry began the preacher was describing the
departure of the wicked into eternal fire. They urgedb
that God is merciful, and that Jesus Christ has shed hist
blood for them. ( But that mercy you have slighted*
(replies the Judge), ' and now is the time of justice;,
that blood you have trodden under foot, now it cries for
vengeance. Know your day, slight the FatherV mercy?
and the Son's blood no longer.' I have seen but once or
twice congregations as much affected in England." *

The happy influence exercised by this superlatively;
gentle and amiable Christian (Mr Fletcher) over young)
persons is pleasingly described by himself, when he was*
residing in Noyon, his native town, and could not be.
employed to preach by the regular pastors. He say*—
" The birds of my fine wood have almost done singing,
but I have met with a parcel of children, whose hearts*
seem tuned towards singing the praises of God,. and. we/
sing every day from four to five. Help us by your*

• P. 243 and 244 of Benton • life of Fletcher.

BBHJECTI0N8. 141

rew. * * • Grown up people stand fast in their
ndity, or in their self-righteousness. The day I
ched I met with some children in my wood, walking
gathering strawberries. I spoke to them about our
her— our Common Father. We felt a touch of bro-
\j affection. They said they would sing to their
bier as well as the birds, and followed me, attempting
sake such melody as you know is commonly made in
e : parts. I outrode them, but some of them had the
ence to follow me home, and said they would speak
1 .me : but the people of the house stopped them,
ng I would not be troubled with children. They
d and said, * they were sure I would not say so, for I
their good brother.' The next day when I heard it,

S aired after them, and invited them to come to me,
i they have done every day since. I make little
ins, which they sing. Some of them are under sweet
rings. Yesterday I wept for joy on hearing one of
n speak of conviction of sin, and joy unspeakable in
ist -which had followed, as an experienced believer
id do in Bristol. Last Sunday I met them in the wood;
•e were a hundred of them, and as many adults. Our
pastor has since desired me to desist from preaching
he wood (for I had exhorted), for fear of giving
wage ; and I have complied, from a concurrence of
umstances which are not worth mentioning. I there-
meet them in my father's yard." *
t is common to hear worldly people talk of the folly
supposing that there is reality in the conversions of
iren. " Poor little' things, they repeated like parrots
,t their mother taught them, and were exalted into
ts." As if the Holy Being who has created man
r takes cognizance of his spiritual condition at a cer-
age, or as if there is a period at which His Spirit is
able to adapt itself to the instruction of a child. How
ish, how daring is the thought I Such persons must
dude Samuel to be a most unfit messenger to Eli, and
selection of Jeremiah to bear the prophecies to Israel

P. 236 of Benton's Life of PltteW.

!

142 REFLECTIONS.

a most injudicious deed ; for Jeremiah said, " Ah, Lord
God, behold J cannot speak, for I am a child. But the
Lord said unto me, say not I am a child ; for thou shah
go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I com*
mand thee, thou shalt speak/' There were many hun-
dreds of young people drawn to the love of the truth by
the preaching of Whitfield in particular. An eyewitness
has described them clustered round his station in Moor*
fields, listening with uplifted eyes, stretching their little
arms to prevent the vile missiles that were directed
against him by a viler mob, and shedding tears of love
and pity on one occasion when they saw him wounded
and bleeding. God has had many witnesses to his tratk
amongst children, and even the noble army of martyfs
has been swelled by their numbers. In all revivals there
has been a proportion of children, and in the United
States we have heard of so solemn a spirit pervading %
town and neighbourhood where the Holy Spirit wet
peculiarly poured forth, that the children would ceajt
from their sports, and be found on their knees under
hedges or in gardens, crying for mercy.

Missionaries employed by the Irish Society have found
the method of conveying instruction by holding a dia-
logue with some one of the company who has more gos-
pel knowledge than the others, a more potent way of
commanding attention than that of preaching. One who
passed several years in the vicinity of Cork states, that
he referred the opening of many minds there to his dia-
logues, chiefly with a pious female, who sometimes put
questions to him, and at other times the order of ques*
tion and answer was reversed. After the discussion of a
doctrine in this manner, he found the hearers more able
to comprehend a sermon on the subject.

In the East, the messengers of the gospel would not be
able to penetrate the minds of any native by regular dis-
courses. Our language of religion is all applied to other
meanings in the lands of idols. Preach to a Hindoo
about internal pollution, and his mind will run back to
some time when he ventured to eat something forbidden
by his Shaster. Tell him of transgressions of the law,

REFLECTIONS. 143

•and he will fix his contrition on the day when he touched
a dead body, or some carcase of an animal, or when his
humanity so far overcame his ideas of duty as to induce
him to draw a perishing fellow-creature of another caste
out of a pit. Speak of the washing of regeneration, and
he will think you mean to exhort him to set forth on a
pilgrimage to the cleansing streams of Gunga. It is
obviously then, not by formal discourses, but by con-
ference, by reiterated explanation, by questioning and
being questioned, that the missionary can discover mis-
apprehensions of his meaning-, and can convey distinct
instruction to the heathen. The scenes depicted by the
American teachers in the Burman empire convey a lively
jrfcture of the conversational mode of instruction, as the
most successful method of breaking up the fallow ground
and introducing the blessed word. Our ideas of a church, a
pulpit, a minister, and a congregation, are so settled, that
we require an effort to emancipate our imaginations, so
as to place a church under a banyan-tree, and a preacher
submitting to all manner of interruption and enquiry, and
breaking off from the subject which he had purposed to
treat of, to diverge into that which may be occupying the
mind of one of his hearers. This, however, seems to
have been the method pursued by the blessed Lord him-
self, who was not only enquired of by bis disciples, but
by any one of the company, whether it were an ensnaring
Pharisee, or a sincere investigator of truth. These all by
their questions furnished occasions which Jesus never
failed to improve by his pertinent, weighty, and heart-
searching answers. We trust no reader can so far mis-
take our meaning, as to suppose that we esteem lightly
our privileges of well-ordered churches, and regular
opportunities of hearing the gospel. These are among
the highest gifts of a gracious Providence to our country.
They have been secured in return for the steadfastness,
the prayers, the sufferings, and the blood of our forefa-
thers. They have been the means of retaining a steady
ministration of gospel truth amongst ourselves, and have ,
enabled us to send forth messengers of good tidings to j
our various colonies, and also to heathen ie^\ox& ^Y&t*

144 REFLECTIONS.

we had no previous footing. We would deprecate
revolution in our church order ; but we earnestly d
to impress on those who have charge of the altar,
they ought to feel themselves at liberty, nay, urg<
apply other means, according to the condition and
circumstances of their flocks. If they desire great tl
of the Holy Spirit, they must not expect them in re
for supineness, or the mere routine duties which
ritual exacts. These are the " in season " opera
which command the common blessings. The " o
season " operations draw down an uncommon or on
•season blessing. Truly we are not straitened in
Lord, but in ourselves. Our want of zeal and eon
and industry confine our expectations, and act as i
pers to our hopes ; and; thus, instead of " expe<
great things from God, and asking great things of G
we are guilty of the sin of tempting Him to abandoi
Zion, by " limiting the Holy One of Israel. 9 '

[ 145 ]

CHAPTER X,

IRELAND.

a

During the period when the house of Plantagenet
reigned in England, a great portion of the north of Ire-
land was settled by Englishmen, who, in comparison
with the natives whose places they usurped, were a
people of high cultivation and moral advancement.
Many of the most able and influential of these English
settlers were recalled to assist in the protracted civil war
which devoured the prosperity of England during the
conflicts of the White Rose and the Red.

The native Irish, smarting under the usurpation of
their neighbours, seized the opportunity afforded by the
absence of the leading men, to rise upon the defenceless
who remained, either exterminating whole families or
expelling them from the country. The natives of
Ulster, having thus recovered their original possessions,
were enabled exceedingly to molest the English settlers
in Leinster, Munster, and Connaught, so that many of
them also were glad to retreat from the island. These
Irish rebels, as they were called, were left pretty much
to themselves till the reign of Elizabeth, who took such
measures as the energy of her character dictated, and
presently brought them into subjection to her dominion.
Yet even then the north of Ireland was often a resort
for discontented persons, and the Highlanders of Scotland
joining them occasionally, the country was kept in a
state of turbulence entirely adverse to moral improve-
ment.

Till the accession of James VI. the English dwellers
in Ulster possessed but some towns and castles, places
capable of defence, while the adjacent and intervening
lands lay waste. In his reign, however, X\& ta&ttax<&

K

146 IRELAND*

lands were taken possession of, and many Scotsmen,
knowing at what an easy rate the fertile ground of Ulster
might be obtained, emigrated, taking with them flocks and
herds, so that the country obtained quickly a sufficient
population. Though centuries have passed since the
English first made a conquest of this beautiful island,
and though the religion established in England, whether
Popery or Protestantism, was nominally established also
in Ireland, it is matter of grief and humiliation, that to
this day, no general rational measures have been taken
to urge gospel truth into the remote and uncivilized dis-»
tricts. It seems as if the " wild Irish/' as they were:
called, had been no more considered in providing the
ministrations of religion, than if they had possessed no
immortal part, and their language had not been capable
of conveying more rational ideas than the chattering of
baboons. Centuries have elapsed, and millions have
passed into eternity, who transferred their worship from
the gods of their forefathers, to the images of saints and
the virgin. And though they may have seen a crucifix,
they have known in truth as little of him who hung on
the cross, and of the God and Father of our Lord Jesus
Christ, as they might have done had they still retained
their Pagan names and observances.

Amongst the settlers in Ulster in James Sixth's time,
there was a mixture of characters ; there were some men
eminent for talents, education and birth ; but the majority
were persons whose spirit of adventure, or poverty, or,, it
may be, loss of character, rendered a change of country
agreeable or convenient. It may therefore be supposed
that the propagatiou of religion was not much on their
minds, and that such preachers as followed them were
persons too generally of a character assimilated to their
own. It pleased God however, for the benefit of the
north of Ireland, to furnish some excellent exceptions to
the character of the mass of settlers — both amongst the
gentry and the clergy sent from Scotland, the fruits of
whose labours, and whose faithfulness in prayer, it is
delightful to dwell upon.

Ulster was under an Episcopal Establishment, like the

ROBERT BLAIR. 147

other Irish' provinces. Bat some of its bishops were
lenient persons, especially Knox, the Bishop of Rapho,
who regretted the wants of the nninstrncted multi-
tudes in his diocese, and when either the scarcity of
clergymen of his own church, or the strong preference
of the Scotch settlers for Presbyterian pastors rendered
it convenient, he winked bard at the admission of Scot-
tish ministers, nay, sometimes, omitted a portion of the
appointed service, which might have been offensive to
their consciences.

The Lord Clanniboy was a useful and zealous suppor-
ter of true religion, and under his protection a few emi-
nent men from Scotland were tolerated for a time. It
was not long till the restless aim at conformity, or rather
uniformity in the church, was the means of disturbing
them from their stations, and leaving their poor flocks to
seek pasture where they might; but during the time
they were suffered to remain, they were made useful in
conveying truth to many ; and though upwards of two
centuries have elapsed, the leaven of righteousness then
deposited in Ulster has not ceased to operate, and is still
productive of a higher tone of morals, a more correct de-
portment, and a clearer comprehension of divine truth,
than is to be found in any other part of the Island. In
1623, Robert Blair overcame a very strong aversion to
settling in Ireland, and accepted the invitation of Lord
Clanniboy to become minister of Bangor. He stated his
opposition to episcopacy and the liturgy, very distinctly
to Bishop Knox, expecting that this obstacle would
prove insurmountable. But the Bishop of Rapho was a
man of a truly Catholic spirit, and told Mr Blair that he
was so well satisfied of his piety that he would impose
no condition inconsistent with his principles, only he
must in conformity to the law ordain him. When the
staunch presbyterian objected to his sole ordination, the
bishop, who proved both his wisdom and humility by
yielding to informality when the exigences of perishing
souls demanded it, replied, " whatever you account of
episcopacy, I know you count a presbytery to have di-
vine warrant : will you not receive ordmatioxv isom^&c

148 IRELAND.

Cunningham and the adjacent brethren, and let me come
in among them in no other relation than a presbyter ? **
This proposal Mr Blair accepted, and thus he was or-
dained minister of Bangor.

He found the people so ignorant, that besides preach-
ing twice in the week as well as on the Lord's day, he
found a more familiar method necessary, and passed. as
much time as his strength would allow in exhorting and
catechising from house to house. A lively interest was
presently awakened, and he mentions two sermons in pais
ticular, one on the glory of heaven, and another on the
torments of hell, which so much affected the people, that
Lord Clanniboy requested him next Lord's day to repeat
them, reversing the time of the day when he did so, that
those persons who lived at a great distance and remained
but half the day might hear. As no part of these very
striking discourses had been committed to paper, he found
it impossible to repeat them.

A circumstance which he mentions as a " memorable
passage of divine Providence/' which occurred in the
second year of his ministry, evinces a lively faith in the
efficacy of prayer, not only in himself and bis neighbour-
ing ministers, but in the mass of the people, and in " the
wise heritors and whole possessors of the lands/' who
gave glory to the Lord for hearing their prayers ; and
many after that set up the worship of God in their fami-
lies, who, previous to that event, had turned a deaf ear
to Mr Blair*8 exhortations on that subject. The " me-
morable passage " was this. There having been inces-
sant rain for a month in harvest, the corn was growing
a finger length in the sheaves, and the whole crop was
in hazard of perishing. " In this deplorable situation,
they resolved solemnly, by humiliation and fasting,
to beseech the Lord to avert the threatened famine.
When the day came it rained heavily from morning-
till night ; so that the Lord seemed to be thrusting out
their prayers from him. But that same night he sent a
mighty wind, which did fully dry the corn and check the
growing ; and this wind continuing to blow fair for two
days, the people ceased, neither night nor day, till the

SIX-MILE-WATER. 149

hole corn was got in. During these two days, I and
vo neighbour ministers, were continuing our suppli-
cations and thanksgivings to the Lord for this great
mercy."*

" The knowledge of God increasing amongst that peo-
ple, and the ordinance of prayer being precious in their
eyes, the work of the Lord did prosper in the place ; and in
ibis we were much encouraged both by the assistance of
holy Mr Cunningham, and by the good example of his
little parish of Holywood ; for knowing that diversity of
gifts is entertaining to the hearers, he and I did often
preach for one another ; and we also agreed to celebrate
the sacrament of the Lord's Supper four times annually
in each of our congregations ; so that those in both pa-
rishes who were thriving in religion, did communicate
together on all these occasions.^ * • •

" Mr John Rigg, the judicious and generous minister
of Antrim, perceiving many people on both sides of the
Six-mile-water awakened out of their security, made an
overture that a monthly meeting might be set up at
Antrim, which was within a mile of Oldstone, and lay
centrical for the awakened persons to resort to, and he
invited Mr Cunningham, Mr Hamilton and myself, to
take part in that work, who were all glad of the motion,
and heartily embraced it.

" This meeting did continue for many years ; in the
summer day four did preach, and when the day grew
shorter only three ; and through the blessing of the Lord
on our labours, religion was spread through the whole
county and into the borders of some others. J Mr Li-
vingston, in his memorable character, mentions that Mr
Blair was a chief instrument of that great work at Six-
mile-water and elsewhere, in the north of Ireland, and
this not only by his own ministry, wherein he was both
diligent and faithful, but also by stirring up others.

" About the year 1630, Mr John Livingston, helper at
. Torphichen, and who was greatly beloved by good people
there, having been oppressed by the bishops in Scotland,

' Life of BUir, p. 55. t Ibid. p. 56, %\\to. ^. &V

150 IRELAND.

came over to Ireland, and Bishop Knox of Hapho, re*
fusing 1 no honest man, Mr Livingston got in by this
chink, and was settled at Killinchie ; where, being a man
of gracious melting spirit, he did much good, and the
Lord was pleased greatly to bless his ministry ; and much
about the same time, Mr Andrew Stuart, a learned gen-
tleman and fervent in spirit, was settled at Dunagor, and
was a successful minister during the short time he lived,
for he died in the midst of his trials. The blessed work
of conversion, which was of several years continunace,
had now spread beyond the bounds of Antrim and Down
to the skirts of the neighbouring counties ; and the resort
of people to the monthly meetings and common occasions,
and the appetite of the people, were become so great, that
we were sometimes constrained, in sympathy to the
people, to venture beyond any preparation we had made
for the season. One time, I having been an assistant to
Mr Welsh at the administration of the sacrament in, his

. congregation, and having delivered one discourse on the
Saturday, I was to preach again on the Sabbath -evening,
which exhausted all the provision I had made for that
time ; but many at a distance, who had been hindered by
the rising of the waters from coming up on the Saturday,
arrived on the Lord's day ; so that I behoved to turn
aside, with a considerable auditory, to the court of dkhe
Castle-yard, where I taught them as the Lord furnished ;
and at night closed with the doctrine of thanksgiving.

" Having already preached once more than I intended,
I was far from expecting that I would be more employed
on the occasion, but the Lord thought otherwise. Sot
on Monday morning many of the people having, on ac-
count of the crowd, gone into the kirk very early, some
of the elders came to me and entreated me that I would
go and read a piece of scripture to them if I could do no
more till the appointed preacher came in. My want of
preparation might have been accepted as an excuse, espe-
cially considering how often I had been engaged already,
but they would take no naysay. So to the kirk they
went, and standing below the pulpit I offered such notes

as did cast up from the reading oV & ^otXioiv o£ *acv^t\ire<>

SIX-MILE-WATEK. • 151

not doubting of my being relieved in due time. But
when the minister of the place (upon Mr Edward Bryce's
refusal to preach that diet) was entering the church to
relieve me, the people without, who were generally those
who had heard me in the Castle* yard the day before, laid
hands on him, and without much ceremony or many
words, they carried him to the same place, and sent an
elder to acquaint me that I needed not expect any
preacher to assist me at that time.

" This message troubled me so much, that some of the
spectators afterwards told me the blood went out of my
.lace in a moment. In this perplexity I knew not what
to do. But to frustrate the expectation of so many
people as had waited there since day, in expectation of
the word of life, grieved me exceedingly ; and to go to the
pulpit altogether unprepared as I was, especially at a time
when much was expected, and when there were several
persons present who were eminent for learning and know-
ledge, this looked like tempting Providence. Yet after
some short ejaculations, and looking to him who is a pre-
sent help in straits, I adventured to go to the pulpit ; and
.in my preface before prayer, though I never durst do the
like before or since, I promised a blessing from God to
•those who would seek the same and open their hearts to
receive it, seeing neither art nor industry had any part
in that exercise.

" After calling upon the name of the Lord, and earnest
wrestling for bis presence with us, I read out a text ; and
the Lord so assisted, that, after a little explanation of
•the words, a proposition to speak on was presented to
me ; and as I was just closing that, a second and after that
a third occurred to me, the discussing of which exhaust-
ed an hour-glass, and when that was run, three other
weighty points, all concatenated together, were offered to
me, the uttering of which might, I think, take as long
time as all I had delivered. After I had ended speaking
to the people I closed with prayer and praise ; I then
hastened to my chamber to spend some time in admiring:
the Lord's condescension. And though in all this I waa

152 IRELAND,

but the voice of one crying, and he who sent me to preach
the gospel might hare been seen to be my prompter,
yet so much applause was given me, that the next time
I was invited to the like occasion in that country, I was
sore tempted to be wholly silent. But dear Mr Cunning-
ham, though he approved my jealousy, yet reproved
my backdrawing, and did chide me out of that snare. In
my haste I had vowed not to set my foot in a pulpit at
that time, yet I yielded standing below to be doing
-something, which I learned thereafter was followed by
no small blessing ; and indeed preaching and praying were
so pleasant in those days, and hearers so eager and greedy,
that no day was long enough and no place large enough
to answer their strong desires and large expectations." *

" One of the remarkable subjects of this work of grace,
was one Andrew Brown of the parish of Lern, who,
though he was born deaf and dumb, and had been of a
vicious loose conversation, yet of late years was so re-
markably changed to the better, not only in forsaking
his evil ways, but also joining himself to religious com*
pany, going apart at least mornings and evenings for
secret prayer, attending to the public worship of God,
and even weeping in time of sermons and the like, that
with the consent of all the ministers that dwelt at An*
trim, he was admitted to the Lord's table." f

[1642.] The faithful ministers who bad been the
happy instruments of this work in the north of Ireland,
were silenced and driven away by the prelatical party in
1634, and the flocks were left without shepherds for
eight years, when the settlers from Scotland applied to
the General Assembly for a supply of ministers. This
request was complied with as far as the scarcity of useful
pastors at that time enabled them. Eight ministers were
sent annually, two at a time, who remained three months,
itinerating in the district of Ulster, establishing sessions,
selecting elders, and ordaining such young men as offered
themselves to the ministry there. The Scots ministers

• Life of Blair, pp. 65, 66, 67, t Ibid. p. 87.

ROBERT BLAIR. 15$

who had formerly been settled in Ireland were among
the first who were sent back, and we find tbe following
account of the contrition of the people who had been
drawn aside by false teachers, or driven away by the
Rebellion, in the Life of Robert Blair.
. " During all the months Mr Blair was in Ireland, he
generally preached once every day, and twice on Sab-
bath, and frequently in the fields ; the auditories being
so large that no house could contain them ; and in some
of these he administered the Lord's Supper. But be-
erase many of the people had formerly, through con-
straint, taken an oath imposed by the lord-deputy, abju-
ring the national covenant of Scotland, Mr Blair, after a
pathetic discourse laying out the guilt of that black oath,
charged all, whose conscience accused and condemned
them, to separate themselves from amongst those who
were not involved in that grievous provocation. And they
having willingly done so, and stood in a body on his left
handy he, as a son, first of thunder, and then of consola-
tion, did, with great vehemency, energy, and warmth,
set before them .the awful threatenings held forth by the
holy law against such transgressors ; and then endea-
voured to display the exceeding greatness of God's mercy
and grace, exhorting them to fly to God for reconcilia-
tion and pardon through Christ. And after the guilty
had willingly, and with great expressions of grief and
sorrow, confessed their sm, they were received as sincere
penitents, and admitted to the holy communion.

" Of that solemnity several old experienced Christians
declared, that they never saw the like, nor ever heard
the gospel so powerfully preached, and pertinently ap-
plied, with such variety of threatenings, promises, exhor-
tations, motives, comforts, and cordials ; and that they
never saw such commotion and heartmelting among the
hearers, both guilty and innocent ; so that it might be
truly said, that ' they gathered together ' to that place
( and drew water and poured it out before the Lord, and
said we have sinned against the Lord.* — 1 Sam. vii. 6."
" During this short visit to Ireland, both ministers and
professors had many sweet and BOul-refrestaVa^ fa^* <&

154 IRELAND.

the gospel, and some solemn high Sabbaths ; the like oi
which Mr Blair seldom enjoyed in St Andrews." *

In the preceding extracts given from Mr Blair's Life,
mention has been made of Mr Livingston's translation
to Ireland. Some interesting particulars of the pro-
ceedings there, confirmatory -of the previous statements]
are afforded by him, which we shall now quote. He
says, during the winter after, his settlement at Kill*
inchie, " I was often in great heaviness, for although
the people were very tractable, yet they were gene*
rally very ignorant, and I saw no appearance of doing
any good among them ; yet it pleased the Lord that
in a short time some of them began to understand
somewhat of their condition. Not only had we publi<
worship free from any inventions of men, but we hu.
also a tolerable discipline ; for after I had been somi
while among them, by the advice of the heads of fami-
lies, some who were thought most able for that charge
were chosen elders to oversee the manners of the rest
and some deacons to gather and distribute the collec
tions. We needed not to have the communion often
for there were nine or ten parishes within the bounds o
twenty miles, wherein there were godly and able minis'
ters that kept a society together, and every one of then
had the communion twice a year, at different times, anc
had two or three of the neighbour ministers to helj
thereat, and most part of the religious people used U
resort to the communion of the rest of the parishes
These ministers were Mr Blair of Bangor, Robert Cun
ningham of Holy wood, James Hamilton of Bally water
John Ridge at Antrim, Henry Colvert at Oidstone
George Dunbar at Lerns, Josiah Welsh at Temple
patrick, and Andrew Stuart at Dunagor. Most of then
used to meet the first Friday of every month at Antrim
where was a great and good congregation, and that daj
was spent in fasting and prayer and public preaching
commonly two preached every forenoon, and two in th<
afternoon. We used to come together the Thursday

♦JLifeof Blair, w 96 % 97.

SIX-MILE- WATER. 155

aight before, and stay the Friday night after, and con-
sult about such things as concerned the carrying on of
the work' of God ; and these meetings amongst ourselves
"were sometimes as profitable as either presbyteries or
synods? and out -of these parishes now mentioned, and
some others, also,: Buch as, laid religion to heart used to
convene to those meetings, especially out of the Six-
mib-water, which was -nearest, and where was the great-
est number of religions people ; and frequently the Sab-
bath after the Friday meeting, the communion was cele-
brated in one or other of these places.

" Among all these ministers there was never any -jar
or jealousy, yea nor among the professors, the greatest
part of them being Scots, and some good jiumber of very
gracious English, all whose contention was to prefer
others to themselves ; and although the gifts of the
ministers were much different, yet it was not observed
that the people followed any to the undervaluing of
others. Many of these religious professors had been
both ignorant and profane, and for debts and want, and
for worse causes, had left Scotland ; yet the Lord was
pleased by his word to work such a change, that I do not
think there were more lively and experienced Christians
any where than were at that time in Ireland, and that in
good numbers, and several of them persons in good out-
ward condition in the world. Being but lately brought
in, the lively edge was not yet gone off them ; and the
perpetual fear that the bishops would put away their
ministers, made them with great hunger wait upon the
ordinances. I have known them come several miles
from their own houses to communions for the Saturday's
sermon, and spend the whole Saturday night in several
companies, sometimes a minister being with them, some-
times themselves alone, in conference and prayer, then
wait on the public ordinances the whole Sabbath, and
spend the Sabbath night likewise, and yet at Monday's
sermon they were not troubled with sleepiness, and so have i
not slept till they went home. Because of their holy I
and righteous carriage, they were generally reverencea |
even Jbjr the graceless multitude among w\iomV\i^\v**k.

I

156 IRELAND.

>

Some of them had attained such dexterity of expressing '
religious purposes by the resemblance of worldly things* :
that, being at feasts and meals in common innr, where :
were some ignorant profane persons, they would among !
themselves entertain a spiritual discourse for a long time* !
and the others professed that, though they spoke good
English, they could not understand what they said. In
those days it was no great difficulty for a minister to
preach or pray in public or private, such was the hunger
of the hearers, and it was hard to judge, whether there
was more of the Lord's presence in the public or private
meetings." *

Mr Fleming, in his work on " The Fulfilling of the
Scriptures," alludes to this lively work as follows : u I
shall here also instance that solemn and great work of
God, which was in the Church of Ireland some years
before the fall of Prelacy. About the year 1628, and
some years after, which, as many grave and solid Christ-
ians yet alive can witness who were there present, was a
blithe and hot sunblink of the gospel. Yea, it may with
sobriety be said to have been one of the largest manifes-
tations of the Spirit, and of the most solemn times of
the downpouring thereof, that almost since the days of
the apostles hath been seen. The power of God did
sensibly accompany the word with an unusual motion
upon the hearers, and a very great tack f as to the con-
version of souls to Christ. The goings of the Lord
were then full of majesty, and the shout of a king was
heard in the solemn meetings of the people. As a judi-
cious old Christian who was there present did express it,
he thought it was like a dawning beam and ray of God,
with such an unusual brightness, as even forced bystand-
ers to an astonishment. A very effectual door opened,
with more than ordinary enlargement, which the mini-
sters of Christ there did find in preaching the Word;
whilst the people might be seen hearing the same in a
melting frame, with much tenderness of spirit. Surely

* Life of John Livingston.

f " Tick, *' a Scotch word, implying * $te»t dttnght of (UK .

IRELAND. 157

this was the very power of God, a convincing seal to the
troth and ministry of his servants, who were then perse-
cuted by the prelates; yea, a thing* which, as it was
known, had an awful impression, and was a terror to their
adversaries. I remember, among other passages, what a
worthy Christian told me, how, sometimes in hearing the
Word, such a power and evidence of the Lord's presence
was with it, that he hath been forced to rise and look
through the church to see what the people were doing-
thinking, from what he felt in his own spirit, it was a
wonder how any could go away without some change
upon them. And then it was easy for Christians to
come thirty or forty miles to the solemn communions
which they had, and there continue, from the time they
came until they returned, without wearying or making
use of sleep ; yea, but little of either meat or drink : and
as some of them professed, they did not feel the need
thereof, but went away most fresh and vigorous, their
souls being filled with the sense of God." *

The blessed time of refreshing at the Six- mile- water
was during the primacy of Archbishop Usher, and the
Presbyterian ministers, who were the instruments of that
revival, were indebted to the connivance or mollifying
counsels of that liberal and devout prelate for all the
indulgence which was extended to Ireland. During the
same period Bedell was bishop of Kilmore. This holy
man's industry in his diocese, but particularly the pains
he took to acquire the Irish language, rendered his ser-
vices peculiarly acceptable and influential. His biographer
relates, that " Every day after dinner and supper " (and
be it marked his table was often crowded by the poor in
rags, as well as by those who might have been deemed
more meet associates for a bishop) " there was a chapter
of the Bible read at his table, whosoever was present,
Protestant or Papist, and Bibles were laid down before
every one of the company, and before himself either the *
Hebrew or Greek, and in his last years the Irish trans

• ««

Fleming's Fulfilling of the Scriptures."— Vol. i. p. 357.

i

158 IRELAND.

lation was laid, and he usually explained the difficulties?
that occurred." *

■ His accomplishing his Irish translation, so as to hava
it added to the number of copies of the Holy Scripture*
laid on his table at family worship, must have afforded
one of the purest satisfactions of his life. But the fetiv
ful rebellion which broke out in the last year of his life,
and rendered that devoted country an Aceldama, diir
persed his flock, and rendered much of his work abortive,'
so that many years passed away before his Irish Bible
was made available for Ireland. The impression mads
by his character and preaching was shown in the conduct
of the rebels at his death. It must be remembered, that
this took place at a time when every Protestant in the 7
vicinity of Kilraore had been destroyed, with the excep*
tion of those who fled or took refuge under the Bishop's
roof. *' The Irish did him unusual honour at his burial,
in 1642, for the chief of the rebels gathered their forces
together, and with them accompanied his body from
Sheredan's house to the churchyard of Kilmore in great
solemnity, and they desired Mr Clogy to bury him ac-
cording to the office prescribed by the Church ; bat
though the gentlemen were so civil as to offer it, yet it
was not thonght advisable to provoke the rabble so much*
as perhaps that might have done ; so it was past over*
But the Irish discharged a volley of shot at his interment,
and cried out in Latin, ' Requiescat in pace ultimus
AnglorumJ for they had often said, that as they esteemed
him the best of the English bishops, so he should be the
last that should be left among them." f

In July, 1649> the celebrated Dr Owen went to Dub-
lin, where, by his own account, he was engaged in con-
stant preaching to a numerous multitude of as thirsting
people after the gospel as he had ever conversed with."
In February, 1650, Dr Owen having returned to London,
was appointed to preach before the Parliament on a day
of humiliation. His heart was full of anxiety about

* Life of Bedell, p. 222. t Ibid, jk 218.

IHBLAND. 159

inland, and he used the opportunity to plead for her des-
titute and thirsting population. " God has been faithful
in-doing great things for you, be faithful in this one— do
four utmost for the preaching of the gospel in Ireland,
jive me leave to add a few motives to this duty. 1. They
nut it. No want like theirs who want the gospel,
would there were for the present one gospel preacher
)r every walled town in the English possessions in
Poland. The land mourneth, and the people perish for
lot of knowledge ; many run to and fro, but it is upon
Jher designs — knowledge is not increased. 2. They are
visible of their wants, and cry out for supply. The tears
nd cries of the inhabitants of Dublin after the manif-
estation of Christ are ever in my view. If tbey were
i the "dark, and loved to have it so, it might somewhat
oee a door on the bowels of our compassion, but they
y out of their darkness, and are ready to follow every
ie to have a candle. If their being without the gospel
tove not our hearts, it is hoped their importunate cries
411 disquiet our rest 9 and wrest help as a beggar doth an
ims." The expressions in this sermon indicate a state
f lively hungering among the Irish Protestants after re-
gious truth, and many such excitements have originated
od expired without obtaining the aid longed for in the
ztent required. It is not the purpose of this work to
well on the neglected and desolate regions of the earth,
at rather to select the cultivated and prosperous spots
drich have so well repayed the culture, so as to encourage
Ihristians to extend and redouble their labours.

About the end of the seventeenth century, the un-
tftled state of the British Government, and of the
iligious opinions of men, had occasioned a fearful and
aring exhibition of vice and practical infidelity; but
till the Lord had a watching and praying people, who
roaned over the wickedness of the land. In London
ret, that centre of the power both of good and evil
l this country, originated Reformation Societies, which
ad recourse to the strong arm of the law for the re*

i

160 IRELAND.

pression of profligacy, while to this they joined prival
prayer and the dissemination of knowledge by conferenc
and by the distribution of little books and cheap tracti
much in the form of the Tract Societies of the presei
day, but with less publicity, and on a smaller scale. Thes
measures excited jealousy in the reign of James II., fi
that the societies narrowly escaped being dissolved h
authority of the Bishop of London ; and for their sect
rity they found themselves obliged to have recourse t
the device of holding their meetings in retired rooms <
coffee-houses, under the name of clubs. Even under sue
impediments they were very useful, and by their infli
ence and exertions, swearing, drunkenness, Sabbath-ma)
kets, &c, were banished from the streets, and shops wei
not permitted to be opened on the Lord's day. Whe
William and Mary came to the throne, a better spir
was introduced in the highest quarter, and under tfc
influence of Dr Stillingfleet, the Queen set herself put
licly to patronize all these hitherto concealed societiei
by which means many joined them who were before ur
conscious of their existence. Churchmen and dissentei
united their strength, and worked indiscriminately in th
matter. The money which was levied as mulcts or fine)
was given to the poor, or expended in the disseminatio
of tracts. Several evening lectures, which still exist i
the city of London, had their origin at this time, an
various companies for visiting the sick poor at thei
houses arose out of them. This excellent leaven extende
itself to many other cities in England, and (which is th
reason for mentioning it here) Ireland also was made
partaker in the blessing, so that Kilkenny, Droghedi
Maynouth, &c, but especially Dublin, became the seat
of similar societies. The Bishop of Dublin and the ir
ferior clergy were not jealous of them as the Londo
clergy had been, so that at one time nine or ten were i
full operation at once. " These persons meet often to prai
sing psalms, and read the Holy Scriptures together, an
to reprove, exhort, and edify one another by their reli
gious conferences. They, moreover, carry on at thei

IRELAND. 161

meetings designs of charity of different kinds, such as
relieving the wants of poor housekeepers, maintaining
their children at school, setting of prisoners at liberty,
tnpporting of lectures and daily prayers in our churches.
These are the societies which our late gracious Queen,
as the learned bishop that hath writ an essay on her
memory tells us, took so great satisfaction in, * that she
enquired often and much about them, and was glad they
went on and prevailed/ which, thanks be to God, they con-
tinue to do, as the Rev. Dr Woodward, who hath obliged
tike world with a very particular account of the rise and
progress of them, hath lately acquainted us. And these
likewise are societies that have proved so exceedingly
serviceable in the work of reformation, that they may be
reckoned a chief support to it, as the late Archbishop
Tillotson declared, upon several occasions, after he had
examined their order, and enquired into their lives." *

It would appear from an expression of this author, in
his own quaint manner, that the Reformation societies
had an influence in Ireland more powerful than in Eng-
land, and thus ; — " very little honourable to the country
where they took their rise," the work began there among
persons of the lower orders, and of little influence ; and
the real vigour and wisdom with which they proceeded,
by and by drew in the archbishop, clergy, magistrates,
and gentry ; " some of whom have shown a zeal which,
if it prevailed the three kingdoms over, might soon pro-
duce a glorious reverse of the state they are now in, and
which, in less than two years, hath succeeded, though
not without such various opposition as might be expect-
ed from combinations of bad men, to that degree in
Dublin, that the profanation of the Lord's Day, by tip-
pling in public-houses, by exercising of trades, &c. &c., is
almost suppressed ; so that public disorders are remark-
ably cured, and, in short, vice is afraid and ashamed to
show its head where, within a few years past, it was
daring and triumphant." f

As an individual instance illustrates a matter, and in-

* Gillies's Collections, vol, i. p. 429. -\- l\nd. \o\. \. ^. \^«

L

162 IRELAND.

terests more than many general observations, we intro-
duce one example of the kind of benefits derived from
these exertions. — " I was once present at one of their
conferences, when a poor man came with most earnest
affection, to return them thanks for what they had done,
both for his body and soul. It seems he was a perfect
stranger to them all, and to every other person in the
place, where God cast him down with a sharp sickness,
in which, as he said, his body and soul had like to have
perished together. He had lived a very ill life, and been
much disused to the ordinances of God by reason of his
seafaring life ; and being now come on shore sick, and
being about a hundred miles from his abode and acquaint-
ance, he fell into great want. Upon which some of this
society, perceiving his distress, recommended him to the
rest ; and they readily allowed him a weekly pension for
eight weeks together, till he was recovered. And one
of the society being a surgeon, carefully dressed a very
grievous sore which he had ; and, by God's blessing, re-
stored it to perfect soundness. Others of them went to
him, and read good books by his bed, which tended to
the improvement of God's visitation upon him. They
also fetched the minister of the place to him, and got a
collection from some charitable neighbours. And, upon
the whole, he recovered, and seemed to be a reformed man,
and came then to render his praises to God, and thanks
to his Christian friends. I mention but few, of multi-
tudes of such instances." *

Such strenuous exertion, and so much of the spirit of
love and of prayer, was not likely to limit itself to the
native land, and accordingly we find, that out of the
Reformation societies arose " The Society for Propa-
gating the Gospel in foreign parts," in 1701, William
III. being the patron. Their endeavours are chiefly to
promote Christianity, after the Episcopal form, in the
English colonies. And about the same time, the " So-
ciety for Promoting Christian Knowledge," the design
of which was the erection of schools in all parts of Eng-

L . GiLies's Collections, vol. L p, 454.

IRELAND* 168

id Wales, and the dispersion of Bibles and other
of religion, and to advance the honour of God and
od of mankind both at home and abroad, by the
ethods that should offer.

707, we find the General Assembly of the Church
)tland publishing a paper, entitled, " Proposals
aing the Propagation of Christian Knowledge
Highlands and Islands of Scotland, and foreign
if the World ;" and, in 1709, royal letters-patent
btained, establishing such a society. Thus is true
1 naturally disposed to propagate itself, and thus,
1 the means seem weak, and the progress slow, we
mprehend the method by which the Lord will
lize the world, and also, which is for us a very
consideration, how our supineness and prayer-
s may impede the progress of the Holy Spirit's
Mid delay the glorious era when the whole earth
9 filled with his glory.

1 particularly affecting to see places which once
lourished as the garden of the Lord, allowed to
to their wilderness condition. This has been
rly the fate of poor Ireland, where, whenever the
ad a people, his dealing with them seems to have
> " show them hard things/' and whenever they
wed him would have displayed their banner be-
>f the truth, they have been trodden under foot of
men, or scattered abroad to seek freedom of wor-
foreign countries. Yet one who knew them well,
Iged them kindly, said, " The native Irish have
s the most susceptible of impression of anypeople,
re, in Europe ; if, therefore, their warm affections
engaged on the side of truth, they will probably
» one of the most religious nations on the globe."
ce, who thus remarked, is surely right, for where
ere such zealous, frank-hearted,' and laborious
ans as the few Irish specimens that we have seen ?
ere and there, where readers, missionaries, or
s have had room to make any impression, it is
g to hear how much danger they will encounter

164 IRELAND.

from persecutors, and how much ardour they will dis-
play to spread " the Story of Peace " around them.

The Synod of Ulster, which, through many trials hy
persecution, hy false doctrine, and hy false brethren, has
been for a century satisfied if it could maintain itself
undiminished, instead of making inroads on the Popish
or heathen people who are mixed up in its borders, is at
last happily alive to its position and its duties. Instead
of contenting itself with keeping together its few sheep,
it has recently awakened to the conviction that it is a
Christian duty to gather in all those who are out of the
fold. A missionary, and consequently a prayerful and
a revival spirit, has of late been bestowed upon them ;
and in September, 1833, they met, in their united cha-
racter of a Synod, not in their usual places of resort,
hut in Dublin, for the purpose of mutual counsel and
encouragement. Some days were spent in seeking the
Lord, and advising with and cheering each other to the
honourable work. During this period four most anima-
ting discourses were preached, and many speeches deli-
vered, which breathe so much of the spirit of grace and
of faithfulness, that the Christian world is on tiptoe to
see when the Holy Spirit shall pour out of his promised
blessings. The writer who reports this interesting con-
clave of servants of the Redeemer says — " The Lord in bis
inexpressible mercy has visited our church with a season
of abundant refreshment from his presence. In every
direction there are evident signs of a revival. * * *
We bless God that he is raising up men of the true
missionary spirit. Simple, self-denying, energetic men,
of strong faith and fervent love, who seem to live for the
gospel. The Synod of Ulster, we rejoice to 6ay, are
taking a prominent share in the heart-stirring operations
of the present time. They have made a more decisive
advance in spiritual life and power within the last few
years than in the previous half century." *

It were out of place here to recite much of the con-
tents of the report, but we introduce two brief extracts.
The one from the speech of the Rev. Duncan Macfarlane

* Introduction to Report of Special "Meeting of &yro& v& Uktet.

IRELAND. 165

of Renfrew, one of two clergymen from Scotland, who
went over, as in the old time, to take sweet counsel with
their brethren ; and the other from the speech of the
Rev. James Alfred Canning, a youth whose zeal and
We seem calculated to encourage and excite very many.

" It was for the accomplishment of the conversion of
sinners, and the building up of churches, that the spirit
was specially given to the church. The words of our
Lord, as well as the history of the Apostles, are very
expressive on this point. He commanded his disciples
to remain at Jerusalem, and not to go forth preaching
the gospel at large till they had received the promise of
the Father ; and then it is added, ' But ye shall receive
power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you, and
ye shall be witnesses unto me, both in Jerusalem and all
Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost parts of
the earth,' The spirit was given to the church to qualify
her for carrying into effect our Lord's command, * Go ye
into all the world, and preach the gospel to every crea-
ture ;' and it was affixed as an express condition that
the power thus obtained should be employed in bearing
witness to the truth in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and
to the uttermost parts of the earth. So long as the church
did act upon this principle the power of the spirit in the
conversion of sinners was manifestly present with her ;
and is it to be wondered at, that when she ceased to
act upon it, this power should be withdrawn? If it
were for this end that it was given, did not the very
pursuance of this end require that when it ceased to be
so employed, it should be withdrawn ? The power of
the spirit, as experienced by the church, is a talent
intrusted for a particular end ; while that end continued
to be served the talent increased, but when it was wrapped
in a napkin and buried, it was taken away ; or, like the
manna laid up contrary to the divine command, it gave
way to corruption in the church." *

" If the nature of prayer be but imperfectly under-
stood in our day, I believe that the necessity and the

* Speech of Rev, Duncan Macfatltne oiTtaoiwt.

I

166 IRELAND.

efficacy of prayer in promoting the interests of the
gospel are still more imperfectly felt and applied. I
fear, sir, that we have become so conversant in our day
with human prudence and human plans in spreading the
gospel, that believing and humble prayer has been jostled
out of that prominent and commanding station which it
ought ever to occupy among them all. If this be not
the fact, I would ask you, sir, to account for the compa-
ratively little success which has attended the operations
of our almost innumerable societies for diffusing the
light of the gospel ; why has so little work been done
by a power which seemed effective ? I know no other
answer which can be given to the question than this,
that while we have gotten together the strong bones of
prudent plans, and laid upon them the powerful muscles
of untiring diligence, and wound around them the nerves
of undying zeal, we have not been careful to prophesy
. upon the frame we have thus constructed, and by believ-
ing prayer to get into it the breath and the blessing of
heaven. We have exercised our ingenuity, sharpened I
do believe by the Spirit's aid, in constructing splendid
machinery; but we have too often forgotten, by earnest
and believing prayer, to bring down upon it the moving
power, which must still be the Spirit of God." *

We know of no church honestly and heartily engaged
in the great mission of converting the world which is
not itself a living church ; and they who do not occupy
themselves in enlarging their borders are sure to have
them straitened by reason of their own coldness. This
missionary movement in Ulster is not mentioned as a
solitary instance, for while Britain has at last, in many
ways, been seeking to act upon Ireland, Ireland has also at
various points been acting on herself. But if Mr Blair's
estimate of Ulster's influence on the other parts of the
kingdom be true, namely, that " Ulster being for suppo-
sition like the thumb in the hand, which is able to hold

I against the four fingers," then we may anticipate power-

I ful results from its present measures.

^— * From Rev. James Alfred CumVn^% &£««<&»

C 167 ]

CHAPTER XI.

SCOTLAND.

When the darkness of Popery first began to be dispersed
by the rays of truth, which feebly penetrated it, Scotland,
like other European countries, received occasional gleams
of the true light, which irradiated a scanty portion of
the land, and generally were smothered in the fires of
persecution. Early in the fifteenth century some of the
opinions propagated byWickliff were carried to Scotland,
and so far does the church seem to have been ripe for
reformation, that it at least felt the burden of its cere-
monies, and was become sensible of its corruptions ; so
that no man lifted his voice against them without quick-
ly obtaining willing followers.

In 1422, James Risby was put to death for denying
that the Church of Rome was head of all other churches.
That the bishop of that See (meaning the Pope) had
pre-eminence over bishops in other countries, and that
the clergy and monks ought to possess temporal power.
These sentiments he adopted from Wickliff, and for his
propagation of these he paid the forfeit of his life. It
does not appear whether there was converting power
with his preaching, or what was the character of the ef-
fect produced among his followers. But his execution
seems to have been among the first of a series of scenes
of tyranny and bloodshed arising from papal animosity
against the truth. His fate is mentioned in the Records of
the city of Glasgow.

The most affecting case of all the early martyrs of
the Reformation was that of Patrick Hamilton, a man
had in admiration and reverence by many on account
of his learning, integrity, and singleness of purpose in
propagating the truth that he had been taught. His
heart could not find satisfaction in the German \M««c- *

168 SCOTLAND.

sities, where the society of Luther and Melancthon
and the tuition of Lambert might have attracted him
to pass his days, " but the zeal of God's glory did
so eat him up, that he could not rest till he returned
into his own country, where the bright beams of the
true light which, by God's grace, were planted in bis
heart, began most abundantly to break forth, both in pub-
lic and in secret."* His influence was too powerful and
too hateful to such men as Beaton, Archbishop of St
Andrews, to be left long without a check. As he was
allied to the highest rank in the kingdom, and as his
holy life had filled many with reverent admiration, it re-
quired the stratagem of procuring the absence of the
King, and exciting the nobles into a ferment, before th#
Archbishop dared to perpetrate his dark purpose. In
1527 this triumph of the enemy of all truth was accom-
plished, and the faithful, the noble, the valiant Patrick
Hamilton expired at the stake, because he denied the use
of pilgrimages, prayers to the saints and for the dead*
purgatory, &c. He died testifying that " though this
death is bitter to the flesh, and fearful before men, yet
it is the entrance into eternal life, which none shall pos-
sess who deny Jesus Christ before this wicked genera-
tion." He obtained the crown of martyrdom at the early
age of twenty-four.

The desire of this holy man's heart was fulfilled as much
by his death as it could possibly have been by his life ;
and the " wolves who had devoured the prey" found
themselves in a worse case than before. For men in all
parts of the kingdom began to enquire wherefore this
flower of the land had been put to a violent death— and
upon hearing the articles of faith for which he suffered,
many began to question the truth and authority of that
which they had formerly implicitly believed. So that
presently not only novices, but the subprior even in the
popish seat of St Andrews, black friars and grey, began
to " smell somewhat of the verity, and espy out the va-
nity of the received superstitions." By this means the

* Gillica's Collections.

GEORGE WISHART. 169

persecutors had soon more work on hand, and new con-
sultations were taken there that some should be burnt,
for men began to speak freely. " A merry gentleman,
named John Lindsay" (query, a jester?), " familiar to
James Beaton, standing by when consultation was had,
said, my Lord, if ye burn any more, except ye follow
my counsel, ye will utterly destroy yourselves ; if ye
(nil burn them, let them be burnt in hollow cellars, for
the smoke of Mr Patrick Hamilton hath infected as
many as it blew upon."*

[1543.] Sixteen years after the death of this excel-
ent man, during wjiich period many besides had showed
hat they valued the truth as it is in Jesus more than
ife, an act of Parliament was obtained, which rendered
t lawful for every man to use the benefit of the Scrip-
ures in the translation which they then possessed ; and
' thereby did the knowledge of God wondrously increase,
md God gave his holy Spirit to simple men in great
tbnndance."

The next individual who commands our especial
ssteem and admiration, and on whose faithful and un-
launted labours the head of the church commanded a
riessing, is George Wishart. After learning the truth
it Cambridge, he began his ministrations in Ross-shire,
ind afterwards in the populous town of Dundee. He
vas listened to with great admiration, and the word was
vith power to many souls, till Cardinal David Beaton,
kephew of James, and instigated by an equally persecut-
ng spirit, incited a leading man in the place to prohibit
lis troubling that town any more by his preaching.
iVishart then went to the West, and made offers of God's
vord to willing hearers, till the Cardinal induced the
bishop of Glasgow (Dunbar) to pursue him to Ayr, with
i view to silence him. In our peaceful days of gospel
privilege, we can with difficulty imagine the state of
nind in wtych saving truth was offered and accepted,
vhen threatened arrest on one hand, and armed protec-
tion on the other, were the destiny and deliverance of the

* Knox s History of the Reformation, B. \«t.

I

i

170 SCOTLAND.

preacher. The Earl of Glencairn and other gentlemen
hearing of the design of the Bishop, came also to Ayr,
and when the Reformer was excluded from the pulpit,
which was taken possession of by the Prelate, he bravely
went to the market-cross, where he preached such a ser-
mon that his very enemies were confounded.* For some
time after this Wishart preached in various places in the
West, and on one occasion, finding the church of Maucb-
line shut against him, he prevented those of his friends
who would have forced an entrance, saying, " Jesus
Christ is as mighty in the fields as in the church, and
himself often preached in the desert, at the seaside, and
other places. It is the word of peace God sends by me,
the blood of none shall be shed this day for the preach-
ing of it." He then took his station on an earthen fence,
where he continued preaching to the people above three
hours, and God wrought so wonderfully by that sermon,
that one of the wickedest men in the country, the Laird
of Sheld, was converted by it, and his eyes ran down with
such abundance of tears, that all men wondered at him.
Presently tidings reached Wishart that the plague had
broken out in Dundee, and in spite of the importunities
of friends, this servant of God went thither, saying,
" They are now in trouble, and need comfort ; perhaps
the hand of God will make them now to magnify and
reverence the word of God, which before they lightlj
esteemed." He chose his preaching station at the East
gate, having the whole within and the sick without, and
adopted for his subject, " He sent his word and healed
them," Psalm cvii. " By which sermon he so raised uj
the hearts of those who heard him, that they regardec
not death, but judged them more happy who should thex
depart, rather than such as should remain behind." H<

* Knox's Specimen of the Bishop's sermon is curious, and tha
which was delivered at the market-cross must have formed a striktBj
and salutary contrast to the babblings of the poor dignitary.—" Tin;
say we sould preich. Quhy not ? Better lait thryve, nor nevir thryre
Had us still for your bischope, and we sail provyde better the nix
tyme."

GEORGE WISHART. 171

sited without reserve all such as lay in extremity, and
» influenced the healthy to distribute to the afflicted,
at he was enabled to provide for all their wants. In
ie very midst of these exertions, which could not have
en ventured upon except by one strong in the faith,
e miserable Cardinal stirred up a wicked man, one of
B minions in the priesthood, to assassinate Wishart.
9 waited to waylay him as he descended from church,
ten the people had departed, but his victim being warn-
by the agitation of his manner, and spying the hilt
the dagger, went calmly up and seized it. The caitiff
I on his knees to implore forgiveness, but news of this
iching the dispersing multitude, they would have torn
a in pieces, and burst in at the gate. The man of
id took the trembling villain in his arms, saying,
Whosoever hurts him shall hurt me; for he hath done
i no hurt, but much good, in teaching me more heed-
ne88 for the time to come," and thus he saved the
est's life. After this he continued preaching in va-
ns places, the people every where flocking to hear him.
[n 1546, the Cardinal had Wishart brought before
q, to give an account of his heretical and seditious
:trines. And here, after the example of his blessed
ater, he hid not his face from shame and spitting,
ng exposed to the most opprobrious words and spite-
conduct that human animosity could suggest. A
est, named Lauder, was set up as his accuser, and read
croll of bitter accusations and curses, which made the
>r ignorant auditors look to see the earth open and
illow up Mr Wishart. He concluded his imprecations
spitting in the face of the faithful martyr, and said,
Vhat answerest thou, thou runnagate, traitor, thief,"
Then did Mr Wishart fall on his knees, and make
prayer to God, and afterwards said, calmly, " Many
i horrible sayings unto me a Christian man, many
rds abominable to hear have ye spoken this day, which
only to teach, but even to think, I ever thought a
at abomination," &c. Then he entered on an account
bis doctrine, answering to every article as far as they
dd give him leave to speak. But they, &sre$gK&!Uf

172 SCOTLAND.

the reason, sobriety, and godliness of his answers, con-
demned him to be burnt. After which sentence he again
fell on his kness, and prayed audibly : " O immortal God,
how long wilt thou suffer the ungodly to exercise their
fury upon thy servants, which do further thy word in
this world ; whereas they on the contrary seek to des-
troy the truth, whereby thou hast revealed thyself to the
world. O Lord, we know certainly that thy true ser-
vants must suffer for thy name's sake persecutions, afflic-
tions, and troubles; yet we desire that thou wouldsfc
preserve and defend thy church, which thou hast chosen
before the foundation of the world, and give thy people
grace to hear thy word, and to be thy true servants in
this present life," &c. His power over the people was
too well known, and had become too formidable to the
bishops for them to suffer him to be heard, in pleading
his cause either with man or God, and therefore the
crowd was driven out, and he hurried to the castle to be
kept till the executioners should have prepared their
torments. He requested in this interval to see the sub-
prior, who had been employed to preach before his pub-
lic accusation, and after some conference with him, the
man was melted to tears, and went to the Cardinal, not
to plead for Wishart's life, for that was beyond hope, but
to make known his innocence to all men. The captain
of the castle came to offer him some food, and having
accepted the offer, he used this occasion to discourse
with him and some friends about the Lord's last supper,
his sufferings and death for us, exhorting them to love
one another, laying aside all rancour and malice, as be-
comes the members of Jesus Christ, who continually
intercedes for us to his Father. After this he blessed
the bread and wine which had been prepared for the meal,
and distributed them in the name of the Lord, desiring
them to remember that Christ died for them, and to feed
on him spiritually. His companions at this solemn hour
must have been those who had received his doctrines;
and strange and new was it to such as had been accus-
tomed to worship a wafer, and to believe that it was trans-
lated into the real body of Christ by tta prayers of a

WILLIAM COOPER. 173

priest, thus hastily to return to the simple ordinance of
remembrance, as it was instituted by the Lord himself,
and this too under circumstances of such close resem-
blance, when Wishart also was about to be oilered up for
the truth. He then gave thanks, and prayed for them,
and retired to his chamber to wait the executioners.
His prayers and his exhortations during- the slow pro-
gress of his death, are full of love, of forgiveness, and of
zeal. He earnestly exhorted that those brethren and
sisters whom he had so often taught should persevere in
their study of the Word of God, and not be driven away
by the terror of his sufferings, " for had he taught men's
doctrines, he should have had greater thanks from men,"
but for the Word of God's sake he now suffered, not
sorrowfully, but with a glad heart. He called tbem to
observe that he should not change countenance, for he
ftired not them who could kill the body, and alter that
had no more that they could do. His prayers for his
accusers and murderers, and his tranquil joy to the lust,
were like the death of the first martyr Stephen, tilling
the bystanders and all who heard of it with admiration
and wonder, so that, like Patrick Hamilton, his death
aroused more from a state of carelessness, and awakened
more distrust in the church which suffered not such men
to live, than all his public ministrations, numerous, faith-
fdl, and efficacious as they had been. It was but two
years after his return from Cambridge, fraught with
divine zeal, that he was summoned by means of martyr-
dom to appear before his Lord in Heaven.

In pursuing the work of the Spirit, it is remarkable
that we are called upon not to follow it from district
to district, or from church to church, but rather from one
faithful preacher to another, for God is true to his pur-
pose of propagating saving truth by the exertions of his
servants. We are called, therefore, to att and to the re-
sult of individual labour rather than of general saving
impression. The next man with whos» labours the
blessing seems to have gone in a prominent manner is
William Cooper, who lived less than half a century
after Wishart. Scotland had, in 1560, \\e\& \\& fcwX

174 SCOTLAND.

General Assembly. Somewhere between 1580 and-
1590, the Assembly appointed Mr Cooper to the charge,
of the parish of Bathkenner, in Stirlingshire. When he
came there he found only four ruinous walls, without
roof, door, or window, for a church ; yet it pleased God
to give such a blessing to his ministry, that within half
a year the people, of their own accord, repaired and
adorned the church with great pleasure. During seven
or eight years of a very successful ministry in that place,
it pleased God to begin to acquaint him with his terrors
and with inward temptations, so that his life was almost
wasted with heaviness ; yet thereby he learned to knoir
more and more of Christ Jesus. He was afterwards'
removed to the North of Scotland, where, for nineteen
years together, he was a comfort to the best, and a wound
to the worst sort. He had a public meeting in the even*
ings of Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, concerning
which he says himself, " It would have done a Chris-
tian's heart good to see those joyful assemblies, to hare
heard the zealous cryings to God among that people,
with sighings, and tears, and melting hearts, and mourn-
ing eyes." Of himself he says, " My witness is in Hea-
ven, that the love of Jesus and his people made continual
preaching my pleasure, and I had no such joy as in doing
his work." All the time that this lively work was going
on, the Lord still exercised him with inward temptations
and great variety of spiritual combats, the end of all
which, through divine mercy, was joy unspeakable, as
himself testifies. " Yea, once," saith he, " in the greatest
extremity of horror and anguish of spirit, when I had
utterly given over and looked for nothing but confusion,
suddenly there did shine in the very twinkling of an eye,
the bright and lightsome countenance of God, proclaim-
ing peace, and confirming it with invincible reasons.
O what a change was there in a moment ! The silly soul
that was even now at the brink of the pit, looking for
nothing but to be swallowed up, was instantly raised up
to heaven, to have fellowship with God in Christ Jesus ;
and from this day forward, my soul was never troubled
with such extremity of terrors. This confirmation was

WILLIAM COOPER. 175

iron to me on a Saturday morning ; there found I the
Dwer of religion, the certainty of the word ; there was
touched with such a lively sense of the divinity and
ower of the Godhead, in mercy reconciled with man,
nd with me in Christ, as I trust my soul shall never
jrget ; glory, glory, glory he to the joyful deliverer of
ly soul out of all adversities for ever/'

Such are the joyful expressions of this holy man, when
elivered from conflicts of which half the Christian world
Ave only heard by the hearing of the ear ; and by such
Bvere discipline does the master of assemblies train his
ervants for enduring hardness like good soldiers of
Christ. In the midst of his inward wrestlings Mr Cooper
ras not without his combats with wicked men, but all
mtward trial seemed small to him after his inward ex-
perience. He never had a controversy with any man
ut for his sins, and the Lord assisting him, " the power
if the word did so hammer down their pride,'' that they
rere all of them brought to acknowledge their evil ways.
1 It was no marvel," says the quaint historian, " to see
Satan stir up his wicked instruments to molest him, for
ie professed himself a disquieter of him and his king-
om." Mr Cooper ceased from his labours in 1619.*

• Clark's Lives.

I

[ 176 ]

CHAPTER XII.

JOHN WELSH.

Mr John Welsh, who was the son of a gent!

Nithsdale, was, in boyhood, cause of much affl

his parents. Those fine mental energies whic

sanctified by the Divine Spirit, made him a man

for faithfulness in the church, in his unsancti

led him to various and strange excesses ; and s

was the spirit of adventure in him, that he actual

himself for a short time to the thieves who dwel

Debateable Ground on the English Borders. H

received him again, after much entreaty by i

friend who acted as mediator, and he went to oc

his own desire, having said that if he should

again, he would be content that his father shoul

him for ever. He soon became a student of gi

mise, and selected the ministry as the professi

choice. His first charge was at Selkirk, and th<

for a short time there, his ministry in that place

without fruit, though " he was attended by the ]

shadow, the hatred of the wicked." A boy in t

where he boarded was so affected by his holy

that till old age he never forgot it. It was Mr

custom on going to rest to lay a plaid above

clothes, so that when he arose to his night pr

could cover himself with it. He used to say he i

how a Christian could lie in bed all night anc

to pray. From the beginning of his ministr

death, he reckoned the day ill spent if he staid ]

or eight hours in prayer.

He was for a short time in charge of the
Kirkcudbright, and was transported to Ayr
where he continued till he was banished.

JOHN WELSH. 177

The generation that had profited under the preaching
of Wishart had passed away, and as was to he expected in
ench a period of false doctrine, their faith had expired
with them, so that John Welsh found the hatred of god-
liness so great that no one would let him a house, and
he was thankful for a time to find shelter under the roof
of Mr John Stewart, a merchant, who was some time
provost of that borough, a man still had in remembrance
is an eminent Christian, who was a great comfort and
tnistant to his young minister. On his first entrance on
lis charge there, Ayr was the seat of faction and of bloody
ends, so that no one could walk the streets in safety ;
nd Mr Welsh there, like Bernard Gilpin on the Borders,
ras often obliged to rush between parties of fighting men,
n the midst of bloodshed, his head shielded by an helmet,
tut with no weapon except the message of peace. He
dopted this singular practice, which was doubtless recom-
aended by the custom and spirit of the times, and its
access prevents us from stigmatizing it as whimsical,
liter having, by his personal interference, terminated a
kirmish, and done what he could to pacify the angry
itssions of the combatants, he was accustomed to cause
k table to be covered in the street, and beginning with
irayer, he prevailed on the parties to eat and drink to-
gether, concluding the whole by singing a psalm. In-
ked, after the rude people had begun to hearken to his
foctrine, and observe his heavenly example, he obtained
inch influence over them, as to become their counsellor
ind pattern in all things, so that this town of blows and
inimo8ities was presently converted into a scene of peace.
We cannot pass this unusual employment of a minister
>f the gospel without observing on the deep plans of Pro-
vidence, which can turn even tbe experience obtained by
Tangression to the glory of God. How little did the
routh think when, in rebellion against his father, and in
he love of adventure, he united himself with marauders
m the Border, that he was there at a school of training
x> undaunted coolness in the midst of battles, that he
night overcome the violent, and shed abroad, in the name
>f the Prince of Peace, the spirit of peace.

M

178 SCOTLAND.

He was most diligent in labours, never preaching less
than once every day ; and, having a strong constitution)
he was enabled to devote all the hours he required to
prayer and study, without diminishing his time for ex-
ertion amongst his people. *' But if his diligence was
great," says his biographer, " so it is doubted whether his
sowing in painfulness, or his harvest in success, was great-
est ; for if either his spiritual experience in seeking the
Lord, or his fruitfulness in converting souls be consider-
ed, they will be found unparalleled in Scotland — and
many years after Mr Welsh's death, Mr David Dickson,
at that time a flourishing minister at Irvine, was frequent-
ly heard to say, when people talked to him of the success
of his ministry, * the gleaning grapes in Ayr, in Mr
Welsh's time, were far above the vintage of Irvine in his
own/ Mr Welsh's preaching was spiritual and search-
ing, his utterance tender and moving. He did not much
insist upon scholastic purposes, and made no show of his
learning. One of his hearers, who was afterwards mini-
ster at Muirkirk, said that a man could hardly hear him
without weeping, his mode of address was so affecting.
Sometimes before he went to preach he would send for
one or two of his elders, and tell them he feared to
go to the pulpit, because he found himself so desert-
ed; he would desire them to pray, and then would
venture to the pulpit. These painful exercises, which
were so calculated to empty him of self, it was ob-
served were ordinarily followed with unusual assistance.
He would retire to the church of Ayr, which was at some
distance from the town, and not find it an irksome soli-
tude to pass the whole night there in prayer. His choice
of this place does not seem to have arisen from any su-
perstition about its being a sacred edifice ; but he thus
obtained liberty to give full expression to his strong
emotions, and prayed not only in an audible, but often in
a loud voice. His wife, who was an excellent woman, a
daughter of John Knox, not unfrequently sought him in
his midnight watchings, and has found him lying on the
ground, weeping and wrestling with the Lord. On one
of these occasions, when his wife found him overcharged

JOHN WELSH. 179

with grie^/he told her he had that to press him which
she had not, — the souls of three thousand to answer for,
while he knew not how it was with many of them. And
at another time when she found him alone, his spirit al-
most overwhelmed with anguish and grief, upon her
serious enquiry he said, that the times that were to come
on Scotland were heavy and sad, though she might not
see them, and that for the contempt of the gospel."*

" On a certain night, being under an extraordinary pres-
sure of spirit to pour forth his heart to God, he left his
wife in bed, and going out to a garden spent most of
the night in that exercise. His wife becoming at last
uneasy, went to seek for him, but missing him in his or-
dinary place, entered other gardens by such "passages as
she knew ; at last she heard a voice, and drawing near to
it, could hear him speak a few words with great force and
fervency accompanied with audible expressions of inward
anguish, which were these, ' O God, wilt thou not give
me Scotland ? O God, wilt thou not give me Scotland ?'
She being afraid to interrupt him, went back, and heard
not the close. At length he came home, and having re-
turned to bed, his wife began to reprove his unmerciful-
ness to his own body, and then enquired what it was that
he prayed for, telling him that she had overheard him.
He replied she had better have been in bed, but since
she heard, he would tell her that he had endured a great
fight for Scotland this night, and hardly could he get a
remnant reserved, ' yet,' said he, « He will be gra-
cious.'

" Another night he arose, but went not out of doors, but
in a chamber travailed and groaned so, that his wife se-
veral times called him to bed. He, however, waited his
time, and when he came she began a modest expostula-
tion with him for tarrying. < Hold thy peace,' said he,
« it will be well with us, but I shall never preach another
preaching in Ayr.' He fell asleep, and before he awak-
ened the messenger was come who carried him prisoner
to the castle of Edinburgh ."-J-

♦ Fleming's Fulfilling of the Scripture, ™\. v. ^. Sft*.
f Ibid, vol i. p. 381.

180 SCOTLAND.

These examples of Mr Welsh's earnest importunity
in prayer, show us what must have been his influence in
his day. He wrestled, like Jacob of old, and had power
with God and prevailed. His discernment and sagacity in
studying the dealings of God and the ways of men retro-
spectively, gave him skill to perceive the probable turn
that future events would take, in so much that his calcu*
lations were almost confided in as predictions ; while the
solemnity of mind produced by the emergency of his
country, and his deep communion with the God from
whom he looked for help, cast a mysterious grandeur
around his person, which conferred on him an influ*
ence far above the measure of Christians in general*
In our less exciting times, there are not wanting those
who impute to John Welsh " monkish austerities," as if
a man could not arise in the night to prayer, but at the
summons of a midnight vesper bell and for the purpose
of telling a certain portion of his rosary. If we con-
sider his early history, we shall find that he was no monk
either in his own person and practice, or in the training
of his pious father. His own spiritual condition, and
the state of his church, are not without precedent in
Scripture, for Judah exhibits the same experience*
" With my soul have I desired thee in the night ; yea,
with my spirit within me will I seek thee early ; for when
thy judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the
world will learn righteousness/'* It was a time of judg-
ment and sore trial for the Church of Scotland, when
her faithful pastors were spared to their attached flocks
only by suiFerance, and were in hourly danger of arrest,
imprisonment and banishment. Instead then of speaking
of " enthusiasm and fanaticism," let us rather consider,
that if he were beside himself it was in zeal for God,
and if he were sober or dejected, it was in the service of
his people and of his country. We ought to reverence
the character guided to superior spiritual attainment by
means of divine judgments, and contemplate him as one
of the few righteous for whose sake, and in answer to
whose intercessions, our church has been preserved to us.

* Isaiah, chap. xxyi. v. 9.

JOHN WELSH. 181

' Mr Welsh, and Mr Forbes, another great witness for
the truth in those days of trial, were, in 1606, sentenced
to die at the assize at Linlithgow. While under that
sentence Mr Welsh wrote in this exalted strain of joy
to his friends the Melvilles, then in London. " Dear
Brethren, we dare say by experience, and God is witness
ire lie not, that unspeakable is the joy that is in a free
and full testimony of Christ's royal authority ; unspeak-
able is the joy of suffering for his kingdom. We had
never such joy and peace in preaching it, as we have
found in suffering for it. We spoke before in knowledge,
we now speak by experience, that the kingdom of God
consists in peace and joy. * * Our joy has greatly
abounded since the last day" (the day of their sentence
of death), " so that we cannot enough wonder at the
riches of his free grace, that should have vouchsafed such
a gift unto us, to suffer for his kingdom, in which there
is joy unspeakable and glorious, and we are rather in fear
that they " (the sufferings) " be not continued, and so we
be robbed of further consolation, than that they should
increase. Surely there is great consolation in suffering
for Christ ; we dow* not express unto you the joy which
our God hath caused abound in us."

His preaching in prison, both in Edinburgh and in
Blackness, was not without fruit — and we find his friend
John Stewart following him to his place of confinement,
with the love that became him to such a servant of their
blessed Lord.

James VI. was induced to commute the sentence of
death into banishment, probably because of his aversion
to shed the blood of one whose reputation was so high,
and whose labours were so had in reverence of the church.
He therefore retired into France, and there learned
quickly, to preach in the French language, and was hon-
oured to bear witness to the truth before the King and
his Court, and to win a rich harvest of souls.
■ After some time he obtained leave to return to Eng-
land, and languished in London till he died. The King

* Are notable to.

182 SCOTLAND.

was often entreated to suffer his return to Scotland on
account of his health, but never granted this boon. He
was afflicted with languor and great weakness in the
knees, occasioned by his continual kneeling at prayer; so
that though he was able to walk, yet he was wholly in-
sensible in them, and the flesh became hard and horny.
King James had been much importuned to suffer him to
preach, but always refused the request till he was become
so weak that his friends thought it impracticable.' Yet as
soon as he obtained permission, (( he greedily embraced
this liberty, and having access to a lecturer s pulpit, he
went and preached both long and fervently, which was
the last performance of his life ; for after he had ended his
sermon he returned to his chamber, and within two hours,
quietly and without pain, resigned his spirit into his
Maker's hands, in 1622, having lived fifty-two yearn J 9

During his prolonged time of languor and feebleness,
he was so filled and overcome with the sensible enjoy-
ment of God that he was sometimes overheard in prayer
to use these words, " Lord, hold thy hand, it is enough,
thy servant is a clay vessel, and can hold no more."

The Josiah Welsh who was minister of Temple Pa-
trick in the north of Ireland, and one of the happy society
of ministers who were the instruments of the revival
there in 1629, was the son of this man, and the heir to
his father's graces and blessings.

At this remote period, we cannot obtain much in-
formation as to the people who were called under the
revival at Ayr, though we have abundant evidence of
a great change being wrought there, and many charac-
ters formed to holiness. But a few anecdotes are
still extant of individuals who were members of Mr
Welsh's flock, that furnish a sample of what fruit that
vintage produced. Hugh Kennedy, who was at the
time Provost of Ayr, and one of Mr Welsh's choice
friends, met a man in the town who had done a most un-
provoked injury to one of bis sons, by throwing his sea-
chest into the water. The Provost said in wrath to the
man, " Were it not for the awe of God, and the place
that I bear, I judge that you. deserre th&t I should tread

HUGH KENNEDY. 183

you under my feet." About two o'clock next morning
the Provost came to his friend John Stewart, and called
him up, desiring him to go with him, telling him that
he could not eat or sleep because of the injurious boast-
ing words he had spoken to that man ; and as he had
confessed his fault to God, he behoved now to go and
confess it to the man. They went together to the
house, and the man hearing who called at such an un-
timely hour, drew his sword in bed, to defend himself
from the attack of the angry Provost. His expected
assailant, to his astonishment, fell on his knees before
him, and said, " Brother, I wronged you and the office
I bear, in boasting and threatening you, and I can get no
rest till you forgive me ; " and he would not rise till the
man solemnly forgave him. It is also related of Hugh
Kennedy, that being one day for many hours engaged in
prayer, he came out at last to his Christian friends who
had waited long for him, his countenance beaming with
unusual cheerfulness. When they enquired of him re-
lative to his long stay, he replied, " it was no wonder,
for he had that day got mercy to himself and all his ; "
and it was very evident, for each of his children gave
44 large ground * to judge that they were truly godly.

Whilst he was dying, Mr Ferguson, a faithful minister
who stood by, said to him, " You have cause, sir, to be
assured that the angels of God are now waiting at the
stoups * of this bed, to convey your soul into Abraham's
bosom." To whom his answer was, " I am sure thereof,
and if the walls of this house could speak, they could
tell how many sweet days I have had in secret fellow-
ship with God, and how familiar he hath been with my
soul." Mr Welsh wrote from France of this good man.
" Happy is that city, yea, happy is that nation that hath
a Hugh Kennedy in it ; I have myself certainly found the
answers of his prayers from the Lord in my behalf."

John Stewart, the only man who would give a lodging
to Mr Welsh on his first going to Ayr, was the fast
friend of Hugh Kennedy. It is interesting to look back

* Poat*.

184 SCOTLAND.

through centuries, and study the influences of Christian
friendship, in knitting hearts together, and causing theto
to walk to the house of God in company. This John
Stewart having come to the inheritance of his patrimony,
was so moved with the straits that many who loved the
Lord Jesus were reduced to, that he deliberately resolved
to distribute his substance to his distressed brethren.
He therefore called as many together in Edinburgh ad
he had means to collect, — and having spent some time
in prayer, took their solemn promise not to reveal what
he was about to do while he lived. He told them he
knew what straits many of them were in, and had brought
a little money to lend to each, but that they were not to*
repay him till he required it of them. This deed of love
was not known till his death. Some time after he had
thus denuded himself, the plague broke out in Ayr, in
consequence of which, trade fell into decay, and Mr
Stewart himself got into difficulties. The profane of the
place began to upbraid him, saying that religion had made
him poor, and his giving to others, like a fool, now made
him want bread. The good man, somewhat like Joshua
when he prayed, " what wilt thou do unto thy great
name," could not bear that -his profession of religion
should bring the good Providence of God into disrepute
even with the wicked ; he therefore left the country te
conceal his straits, and went to Rochelle, in France*
When he was there, he found that the obstacles to trade
had reduced the price of salt and various other articles,
so as to encourage him to load a ship upon credit. Thia
he did, and hastened home through England to be ready
to receive his cargo. After long and anxious waiting*
he was informed that the vessel had fallen into the hands?
of the Turks. This intelligence so overcame him, from
the fear that the mouths of the wicked should be opened
to reproach his profession, that for many days he kept
his chamber. At last a maid, who heard among the
people that John Stewart's ship was arrived in the Roads,
came running, and called at the door that his ship waa
come. " But he being at prayer, could not be moved
^Jrom his Master's company till he was satisfied and then

JOHN STEWART. 185

went forth and saw it was the truth." His deep exercise
of mind was not, however, to end here ; for a worthy
Christian, and his great intimate, John Kennedy (sup-
posed to be the seafaring son of Hugh), had gone out in
a small boat for joy to meet the .ship. A storm arising,
his little boat was carried out to sea, and in the judgment
of all who looked on, he was supposed to be swallowed
up by the raging ocean. The storm so increased that
the loss of the ship was hourly expected also, and this
gracious man was so overpowered with grief, that for
three days he could see no one. At last, having gone to
visit the supposed widow of his friend, — while they were
mutually weeping and condoling with each other, John
Kennedy came home, having been cast away on a dis-
tant part of the coast. The ship also at last came safely
into port. Thus God heard their cry and delivered them
out of their distresses ; and here at once did many mercies
meet. The sale of his cargo enabled him to pay all his
debts, and returned him twenty thousand merks besides.
Thus the bread on the waters was returned after many
days, and the liberal heart was made to rejoice in the
kind and watchful Providence of God.

On his death-bed, John Stewart exhorted all who
came to visit him to be humble ; and of himself he said,
" I go the way of all flesh, and it may be some of you
doubt nothing of my well-being ; yea, I testify, that ex-
cept when I slept or was on business, I was not these ten
years without thoughts of God so long as I should be in
going from my own house to the Cross ; and yet I doubt
myself and am in great agony, — yea, at the brink of
despair." A day or two before he died, he turned his
face to the wall from the company for two hours, and
then Mr John Ferguson came in, a grave and godly mi-
nister of that place, who asked what he was doing, upon
which he turned himself, with these words, " I have
been fighting and working out my salvation with fear
and trembling ; and now I bless God it is perfected, sealed,
confirmed, — and all fears are gone." *

• Flanmg'i Fulfilling of the Scripture*, *o\, \. ^. *SV

C 186 ]

CHAPTER XIII.

ROBERT BRUCE.

Mr Robert Bruce began his ministry in Edinburgh
about 1590, so that he was a cotemporary of Mr Welsh.
He is thus described by Fleming : — " He shined as a great
light through the whole land, the power and efficacy of the
Spirit most sensibly accompanying the word he preached.
He was a terror to evil doers, and the authority of God
did so appear in his carriage, with such a majesty in his
countenance, as forced fear and respect from the greatest
of the land, even those who were most avowed haters of
godliness." Livingston, in his memoir, says, " He had a
very majestic countenance, and whatever he spoke in
public or private, yea even when he read the Word, X
thought it had such a force as I never discerned in any
other man. I heard him once say, ' I would desire no
more for one request, but one hour s conference with
King James. I know he hath a conscience, I made him
once to weep bitterly in his own house at Holyrood.' "
He was a man that had much inward exercise on his own
personal case, and had often been perplexed about that
great foundation truth, " if there is a God," which cost
him many days and nights of anxiety. When he had
ascended the pulpit, after being, as was his custom, for
some time silent, he would say, " I think it a great mat-
ter to believe that there is a God," telling the people it
was another thing to believe that than they judged.
But it was also known by his familiar friends how strong
and undoubting his faith became, and with what ardour
and joy his communion with his heavenly Father was
accompanied. Livingston mentions an incident which
^^ccarred at Larbot, where he had frequent opportunities

ROBERT BRUCE. 187

to hear Mr Brace preach, that gives us a glimpse of the
spirit of those ministers who are generally honoured as
instruments to revive the church. " He used after the
first service to retire to a chamber near the church. Some
noblemen having come far to hear him, and having the
same distance to return to their homes, became impatient
from the minister's delay to return to church, and sent
the bell-man to hearken at his door if there were any
appearance of his coming. The bellman returned and
said, * I think he will not come out this day at all, for I
hear him always saying to another that he cannot go,
except the other go with him, and I do not hear the
other answer him a word at all/ The foolish bellman
understood not that he was dealing with his God." The
great success of his ministry at Edinburgh, Inverness,
and other places whither Providence called him, is abun-
dantly known. Whilst he was confined at Inverness,
that poor dark country was marvellously enlightened,
many were brought in to Christ by his ministry, and a
seed sown in those places, which even to this day is
not wholly worn out. There are interesting anecdotes
still on record of his being made useful to individuals,
some of whom became themselves preachers of the
truth. The closing scene of his ministry is as remark-
able an example of the reviving influences of the Holy
Spirit as any preserved about that period. " A little
before his death, in 1632, when he was at Edinburgh,
and through weakness kept his chamber, there was a
meeting of divers godly ministers at that time assembled
oil some special concern of the church. Hearing Mr
Bruce was in the town, they came together and gave
him an account of the actings of these times, the prelates
then being resolved to introduce the service-book. After
which Mr Bruce prayed, and did therein tell over again
to the Lord the very substance of their discourse, which
was a sad representation of the case of the church. At
which time there was such an extraordinary motion on
all present, so sensible a down-pouring of the Spirit, that
they could hardly contain themselves. But what was
most strange, there was even some un\xs>\xal mctamv oa.

188 SCOTLAND.

those who were in other parts of the house, not knowing
the cause at the very instant. Mr Weems of Lochacker
being then occasionally present, when he went away,
said, ' O how strange a man is this, for he knocketh
down the Spirit of God on us all.' This he said, because
Mr Bruce did divers times knock with his fingers on the
table." This was related to Mr Fleming by a worthy
Christian gentleman, whose mother's house was the scene
of this visitation.

Six years after Mr Bruce began his ministry, there
was a lively movement from the Holy Spirit on the
whole General Assembly of the Church, while their de-
votions were conducted by an intimate friend and fel-
low-labourer of Bruce, the Rev. Mr Davidson,

This memorable occurrence is related by Mr Fleming
nearly in the following words : — " In the year 1596, upon
Tuesday the 30th of March, the ministers and other
commissioners of the General Assembly, met at Edin-
burgh, found it a duty by themselves to convene in the
church at nine o'clock, one of the doors being shut, and
the other kept open for the meeting only. Their object
was to humble themselves and wrestle with God, to pur-
sue a national as well as a personal reconciliation. The
whole number amounted to four hundred ministers, and
some select Christians and elders of the church with
them. After prayer, Mr John Davidson was chosen
to preside amongst them. He caused the third and
thirty-fourth chapters of Ezekiel to be read, and then
said, ( Since it pleased the Lord to move them to choose
him who was the unworthiest and unmeetest of the
number, for the place of a preacher that day, they were
not to look * that he came to be censured by them, but to
use the authority of a teacher to hearers, without any
prejudice to that liberty given them of the Lord, to try
the spirits whether they be of God or not/

" He showed what was the end of their meeting, that
it was the confession of sins, and to promise a forsaking
thereof, to turn unto the Lord, and enter into a new

GENERAL ASSEMBLY. 189

Covenant and league with him, that thus by repentance
they might he the meeter to provoke others to the same.
In which he was followed with that power for moving of
their spirits in application, that within an hour after they
were entered into the church, they looked with another
countenance than that wherewith they entered. He
exhorted them to that retired work of meditation and
acknowledgement of their sins, even whilst they were
together, that for the space of a quarter of an hour they
were thus humbling themselves " (during which time it
is probable the preacher was silent), " yea, with such a
joint concurrence with those sighs and groans, and with
shedding of tears amongst the most, every one provoking
another by their example, and the teacher himself by his,
so as the very church resounded, and that place might
worthily be called a Bochim, for the like of that day
had not been seen in Scotland since the Reformation, as
every one that was present confessed. There have been
many days of humiliation for present judgments, or im-
minent dangers, but the like for sin and defection was
never seen since the Reformation. After prayer and
public confession, Mr Davidson treated on Luke, xii. 22,
' Take no thought for your life,' &c, wonderfully as-
sisted by God's spirit, to cast down and raise up again the
brethren. The exercise continued till near one after-
noon. When the brethren were to dissolve they were
stayed by the Moderator, and desired to hold up their
hands to testify their entering into a new league and cove-
nant with God. They held up their hands presently
and readily, which was a moving spectacle to all who
were present." * And that afternoon, by the General
Assembly, was the renewing of the covenant in particu-
lar synods resolved upon.f

" On the 12th of May, in the same year, the covenant
was renewed in the synod of Fife, met at Dunfermline,

* Fleming's " Fulfilling of the Scriptures."

•f- This remarkable outpouring is also noticed in Calderwood's His-
tory of the Church. It was quickly followed by a similar visitation
in the Synod of Fife,

190 SCOTLAND.

when Mr James Melville discoursed on the last chapter
of Joshua with such power and force, that all were forced
to fall down before the Lord with sobs and tears, and to
search their own ways in private meditation. Thereafter
he made open confession, in name of the rest, of unthank-
fulness, undutifulness, negligence, coldness, hardness of
heart, instability, vanity of mind, folly of speech, and
conversation fashioned after the world, &c. Finally,
trembling and weeping for the misusage of so honourable
a calling, and quaking for fear that such a weight of God's
wrath was lying upon them for the blood of so many
souls belonging to their charge, they weeped bitterly,
and sought grace from God for amendment. After this
confession, the Moderator proceeded in his discourse, —
and after diverse other points of doctrine, admonition
and exhortation, delivered for the purpose, every one, by
lifting up of the hand, testified before God mutually, one
before other, the sincere and earnest purpose of their
heart to study to amend, and serve God better in time
to come, both in their lives and in the great office of the
ministry. James Melville then discoursed further on
< ye are witnesses against yourselves this day/ and urged
their consenting to register the whole transaction in the
minutes of Synod as a testimony. He then invited some
of the ancient fathers, for the benefit of the younger bre-
thren, to declare what they had seen of God's Providence
in planting and preserving the gospel and the liberty ol
Christ's kingdom in their country.

" « David Ferguson, the oldest minister in company,
discoursed how that a few preachers, viz. only six, where-
of himself was one, went forward without fear or care o:
the world, and prevailed when there was no name of a sti-
pend heard tell of, when authority, both ecclesiastical anc
civil, opposed themselves, and there was scarce a man o:
note or estimation to take the matter in hand. But non
the fear and flattery of men, care of purchasing, or fear o
losing money or stipends, had weakened the hearts of i
number of ministers/ Mr John Davidson and M
David Black followed with powerful exhortations, an<
e affecting service was closed vr\\\i ^wii«s\,y^i«Vj ^

DUNFERMLINE. 191

Moderator, that they might be enabled to perform the
vows they had made. "*

O, that Scotland would now take up the prayer of the
Church of old, and never cease till the petition is granted !
" Return, we beseech thee O God of Hosts : look down
from Heaven, and behold and visit this vine ; and the
vineyard which thy right hand hath planted, and the
branch that thou madest strong for thyself. Let thy
hand be upon the man of thy right hand, upon the Son
of Man whom thou madest strong for thyself. So will
not we go back from thee : quicken us, and we will call
upon thy name. Turn us again, O Lord God of Hosts,
cause thy face to shine ; and we shall be saved." f

During the times of persecution Scotland was blessed
with various similar outpourings, which varied from
these only in being of a more extended character, em-
bracing not the clergy and elders only, but the whole
mass of the people. How glorious a sight, to witness
men, women, and children, with strong crying and tears,
lifting up their hands to Heaven, and swearing to adhere
to each other, and to suffer the loss of all things rather
than accept a religion which was contrary to conscience.
How Bolemn to hear the soldiers of a whole army, when
retired to their tents at night, engaged in reading the word,
in praise and in prayer ; calling on their God to witness
their sincerity, and to assist their just efforts to defend
themselves from oppression in the great cause of his
truth. And what an admonition and example to those
who toil for worldly prosperity by earthly instrumen-
tality, — neglecting to seek the blessing of Him who
maketh rich and addeth no sorrow. What an admoni-
tion, in spite of the scorn and satire which talented men
of our days have tried to cast upon it — to see whole
regiments prepare for battle, not by furbishing their arms
only, but by hearkening to their preachers ; learning at
their feet what doctrines they ought to reject and what
they ought to aim at establishing ; clearing their un-

• Calderwood's Hist. 323, 324.
f Paalme, lxxx, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19.

192 SCOTLAND.

derstandings about these affairs of eternal concern, and
willing to sacrifice themselves, so that they might for
their children and for their country procure the unso-
phisticated waters of life.

War, we are aware, is a weapon which human corrup-
tion alone has brought into use. Victory, it is confessed,
proves no truth. But our God, knowing what instru-
ments the wicked would resort to, and what defences
those who fear him would be constrained to employ, has
condescended to be called " the King of Glory, the Lord
mighty in battle." He has declared that " the battle is
not ours, but God's," 2 Chron. xx. 15 ; and if ever
there was a war, which had neither pride nor ambition
for its basis, the conflict of '< the Congregation *' was
that war.

Fleming, in his very peculiar but solemn manner,
alludes to these times :— " It is astonishing, and should
be matter of wonder and praise for after ages, to consider
that solemn time of the Reformation, when the Lord
began to visit his church. What a swift course the
spreading of the kingdom of Christ had, and how pro-
fessors of the truth thronged in, amidst the greatest
threatenings of those on whose side authority and -power
then was. O ! how astonishing and extraordinary was
this appearance of the Lord there on all ranks, so that
they offered themselves willingly for the truth ; and upon
such of his servants as were sent forth on the work of
the ministry, with such zeal and oneness of spirit as on the
furthest hazard of their lives and estates, they did enter
into covenant for mutual defence, for the truth of Christ
and a free profession thereof, as is set down at large
in the history of the Reformation, first in the year 1557,
and after at Perth in 1559, and by the congregation of
the west country, &c. Their mutual bond was, to con-
cur, assist, and convene together, and not spare labour,
goods, substance, bodies and lives, to maintain the liberty
of the congregation, and every member thereof, against
whomsoever that should trouble them for the cause of
religion. Thus was this promise accomplished in that
^ age, " That they who wait upon the Lord, shall mount

THE ARMY OF THE COTENANT. 193

Up as with eagle's wings, and shall run and not be weary,"
&c. * Knox, in his History of the Reformation, remarks,
p. 303—" For what was our force or number, to bring
so great an enterprise to such a close ? Our very ene-
mies can witness in how great purity did God esta-
blish his true religion amongst us — and this we confess
to be a strength given us from God, because we esteem
not ourselves wise in our own eyes ; but knowing our
wisdom to be foolishness, we, before God, laid it aside,
and followed that which was only approved of him. In
this point could never our enemies cause us faint, whilst
for this we wrestled, that the reverend face of the first
primitive and apostolic church should be reduced to the
eyes and knowledge of men ; and in that point hath our
God strengthened us, till the work was finished as the
world may see." J

" That was also a remarkable time wherein the Lord
did let forth much of the Spirit on his people in 1638,
when this nation did solemnly enter into covenant, which
many yet alive at this day do know, how the spirits of
men were raised and wrought upon by the word, and
ordinances lively and longed after. For then did the na-
tion own the Lord, and was visibly owned by him. Much
zeal and an enlarged heart did appear for the public cause
—personal reformation was seriously set about, — and then
also was there a remarkable gale of Providence, that did
attend the actings of his people, which did astonish their
adversaries, and forced many of them to feign subjection.
Alas ! how is our night come on, for the Lord hath
in anger covered the nice of our Zion with a dark cloud.
Must not we also say, since the land was engaged by
covenant to the Lord in these late times, what a solemn
outletting of the Spirit hath been seen, a large harvest
with much of the fruit of the gospel discernible, which
we may say with a warrant hath been proven in the
inbringing of thousands to Christ ; a part whereof are
now in glory, and many yet alive who are a visible seal
to this truth, some of whom I am sure will not lose the

* Fulfilling of Scripture, vol. i. p. 305.
t Knox's History of Reformation.

N

194 SCOTLAND*

remembrance of these sweet refreshing times which the
land did for several years enjoy, of the gospel and of many
solemn communions, where a large blessing with much
of the Spirit was felt, accompanying the ordinances."*

Livingston, the friend and coadjutor of Blair, in his
Memoirs, gives, in his brief and terse manner, a hint of
the great emotion with which the Covenant was signed,
which makes us long for a more detailed account. " I
was present at Lanark, and several other parishes, when
on Sabbath, after the forenoon's sermon, the covenant
was read and sworn ; and I may truly say, that in all my
life time, excepting at the Kirk of Shotts, I never saw
such motions from the Spirit of God. All the people
generally and most willingly concurred. I have seen
more than a thousand persons all at once lifting up their
hands, and the tears falling down from their eyes ; so
that through the whole land, excepting the professed
Papists, and some few who adhered to the prelates, peo-
ple universally entered into the Covenant of God."f

The Rev. Mr Aiton, in his Life of Alexander Hen-
derson, just published, a work exhibiting laborious re-
search, and much judgment in its interesting details of
the second Reformation in Scotland, presents an account
of the reception of the second Covenant in Edinburgh,
which must be a welcome addition to the hints we are
able to give on this subject.

The Presbyterians had crowded to Edinburgh to
the number of sixty thousand, and on the 28th of Fe-
bruary, 1638, a Fast had been appointed in the Grey
Friars' Church. Two was the hour agreed upon for a
meeting of all the barons and gentlemen, with the clergy,
for the purpose of entering into the Solemn League and
Covenant. " Long before the appointed hour," says Mr
Aiton, " the venerable church of the Grey Friars, and
the large open space around it, were filled with Presby-
terians from every quarter of Scotland. At two o'clock
Rothes, Loudon, Henderson, Dickson, and Johnston ar-
rived with a copy of the Covenant, ready for signature.

• Fulfilling the Scriptures, vol. ii. p. 357.
l f Life of Livingston, p. 2%.

SIGNING 07 SOLEMN LEAGUE AND COVENANT. 195

Henderson constituted the meeting by prayer, ( verrie
powerfollie and pertinentlie' to the purpose in hand.
Louden then, in an impressive speech, stated the occa-
sion of their meeting. After mentioning that the cour-
tiers had done every thing in their power to effect a di-
vision among the Presbyterians, and when thus weakened
to introduce innovation, and that they should therefore
use every lawful means for keeping themselves together
in a common cause, he said, that in a former period, when
Papal darkness was enlightened only from the flaming
faggot of the martyrs' stake, the first reformers swore in
Covenant to maintain the most blessed word of God
even unto the death.

" In a later period when apprehensions were entertained
of the restoration of Popery, King James, the nobles, and
people throughout every parish subscribed another Co-
venant as a test of their religious principles. The Cove-
nant now about to be read, had a similar object in view,
and had been agreed to by the Commissioners. In con-
clusion, he in their name, solemnly took the searcher of
hearts to witness, that they intended neither dishonour
to God, nor disloyalty to the king. The Covenant was
next read by Johnston, < out of a fair parchment, about
an elne squair.' When the reading was finished there
was a pause, and silence still as death. Rothes broke it
by requesting that if any of them had objections to offer,
he would now be heard. They were told that if these
objectors were of the south and west country, they should
repair to the west end of the Kirk, where Loudon and
Dickson would reason with them ; but if they belonged
to the Lothians, or to the country north of the Forth,
they were to go to the east end, where he and Hender-
son would give them any satisfaction. * Few comes, and
these few proposed but few doubts, which were soon re-
solved.' These preliminaries occupied till about four
o'clock, when the venerable Earl of Sutherland stepped
forward, and put the first name to the memorable docu-
ment. Sir Andrew Murray, minister of Ebdy in Fife,
was the second who subscribed. After it had gone tU«i

196 SCOTLAND.

round of the whole church, it was taken out to he signed
by the crowd in the churchyard. Here it was spread be-
fore them, like another roll of the prophets, upon a flat
gravestone, to be read and subscribed by as many as
could get near it. Many in addition to their name, wrote
till deaths and some even opened a vein, and subscribed
with their blood. The immense sheet in a short time
became so much crowded with names on both sides, and
throughout its whole space, that there was not room left
for a single additional signature. Even the margin was
scrawled over ; and as the document filled up, the sub-
scribers seem to have been limited to the initial letters
of their name. Zeal in the cause of Christ, and courage
for the liberties of Scotland, warmed every breast. Joy
was mingled with the expressions of some, and the voice
of shouting arose from a few. But by far the greater
portion were deeply impressed with very different feel*
ings. Most of them, of all sorts, wept bitterly, for their
defection from the Lord. And in testimony of his sin-
cerity every one confirmed his subscription by a solemn
oath. With groans and tears streaming down their laces,
they all lifted up their right hands at once. When this
awful appeal was made to the Searcher of hearts at the
day of judgment, so great was the fear of again breaking
this Covenant, that thousands of arms which had never
trembled even when drawing the sword on the eve of
battle, were now loosened at every joint. After the
oath had been administered, the people were powerfully
enjoined to begin their personal reformation. At the
conclusion, every body seemed to feel that a great mea-
sure of the Divine Presence had accompanied the solem-
nities of the day, and with their hearts much comforted
and strengthened for every duty, the enormous crowd
retired about nine at night. Well, indeed, might Hen-
derson boast, in his reply to the Aberdeen doctors, * that
this was the day of the Lord's power, wherein we saw
his people most willingly offer themselves in multitudes
like the dew drops of the morning — this was indeed the
great day of Israel wherein the arm of the Lord was re-

SIGNING OF SOLEMN LEAGUE AND COVENANT. 197

vealed — the day of the Redeemer's strength on which the
princes of the people assembled to swear their allegiance
to the King of Kings.* »*

Thus did a nation lift up their hands unto the Lord
the most high God, the possessor of heaven and earth.
It is in vain that politicians, poets, or prelatists, impute
such motives as they can comprehend. It has in vain
been asserted that the lords forced the people to sign,
that profane and ungodly men, as well as women and
children, added their names to this remarkable docu-
ment. Who ever heard of such an act of mere human
policy, or even of political or fanatical excitement?
When we hear of sixty thousand persons voluntarily as-
sembled in one place, on a great public call of duty, weep-
ing for their sins, trembling lest they should fail in the
performance of their vows, and under this awful feeling
coming deliberately forward to subscribe a document
which might be construed as treason, and seal their death-
warrant, and then holding up their hands to heaven and
confirming their Solemn Covenant by a still more solemn
oath ; and when after this sublime and soul exciting tran-
saction, we see the mighty crowd peacefully dispersing,
each to their several homes, and before nightfall leaving
the dwelling-place of the dead where they were assembled,
to its wonted loneliness and silence, it is impossible for
the candid mind not to perceive and to own, that this was
nothing less than a great act of national devotion, per-
formed under a divine and holy impulse. If the gene-
rous heart swells with admiring sympathy at sight of a
nation striving for mere political rights, or if joy fills the
soul when the bands of slavery are burst and the cap-
tive is set free, with what feelings, should we contem-
plate this wonderful scene ? We know of nothing to be
compared with it in moral grandeur among the national
transactions which earth has ever witnessed, except that
solemn assembly of the Jews when, after the seventy ^
years' captivity, on their restoration to the place of
their fathers' sepulchres and the city of their God, Ezra

Life of Henderson, p. 254-5 «a& &«

<

198 SCOTLAND.

" blessed the Lord the great God, and all the people
answered, Amen, Amen ! with lifting up of their hands,
and bared their heads, and worshipped the Lord with their
faces to the ground,"* After their solemn fast and hum-
ble confession, " God made them to rejoice with great
joy ; the wives also and the children rejoiced.""f And so
was it with Scotland — and they were strengthened to do
and to suffer great things for His name's sake, after the
Holy Spirit was communicated to them at the time of
this solemn transaction.

We can spare but little space for the work of grace
in the army of the congregation, but make a brief ex-
tract from the Rev. Robert Blair's account of that which
he witnessed in person. Mr Blair was at that time a
placed and highly acceptable minister at St. Andrew's.
But so important was the edification of the army deemed,
tbat he was called from his charge in 1640, to share the
vicissitudes of battle with those who went to war.

" With this army the Church sent an able minister
attached to every regiment. The chaplains jointly were
veeted with the powers of a presbytery" These were
not, as it appears, priests-errant, men of inflamed pas-
sions, half insane with religious frenzy, as they have
been represented by the man of whose talents Scotland
has so greatly boasted herself, but men tried and found
faithful in the private duties of the ministry, selected
carefully by the Church, and invested with the grave
powers of a church court.

" Mr Blair went with Lord Lindsay's regiment ; and
when the treaty was set on foot, the committee of estates
sent him up to assist the commissioners with his best
advice.

" Amongst all the Scots army, there was scarce a
man without a Bible ; a great part of them were devout
and religious persons ; so that when they came to their
quarters, there was little else to be heard but reading,
prayer, and solemn melody . ,J f

•

Nehemiah, viii. 5, 6. •)• Jbid.^T. 6.

| Memoir of Robert BUox, ^» $*,^>.

THE ARMY OF THE COVENANT. 199

Such is the short but very satisfactory account given
by Mr Blair of the religious condition of the Covenant-
ing army. This eminent individual will be recognised
as the same man of God who was a chief instrument in
the deep religious impression which was made at the
Six-mile*water in Ireland, nearly twenty years before
this. He was, besides, honoured to revive his Master's
work in Glasgow and the west, in Ireland, and in St
Andrew's. Livingston describes him as " a man of a
notable constitution both of body and mind, of a majestic
yet amiable countenance; one thoroughly learned, of
strong parts and solid judgment, and of a most public
spirit for God. * * * He spent many days and
nights in prayer alone and with others, and was one very
intimate with God."*

Mr David Dickson, whose ministry at Irvine was at-
tended with so much fruit, was sometimes engaged at
Stewarton, where he says " The Lord had a great work
in converting many. Numbers of them were at first
under great terrors, deep distress of conscience, and after-
wards attained to sweet peace and strong consolation. I
preached often to them in the time of the college vaca-
tion" (of Glasgow where he was a regent), "residing- at the
house of that famous saint, the Lady Robertland, and
had much conference with them, and profited more by
them than I think they did by me ; though ignorant
•people and proud secure livers called them < the daft
people of Stewarton.' Mr Robert Boyd of Trochrigg "
(principal of the College of Glasgow, and minister of
Govan) " came from his house in Carrick to meet with
them ; and having conferred with both men and women,
he heartily blessed God for the grace of God in them.
The Countess of Eglinton did much countenance them,
and persuaded her noble lord to leave his hunting and
hawking for some days to confer with some of them,
whom she had sent for that purpose. After conferem
with them, his lordship declared he never spoke with
like of them, and wondered at the wisdom they mi

* Memoir of Robert Blair, p. §*» $&,

200 SCOTLAND.

fested. Such of them as were able to travel went to the
Monday market at Irvine, the next parish, with such
little commodities as they had, but their chief design was
to hear the Monday lecture by Mr Dickson, the minister
of Irvine, which was so prudently ordered by him, that it
ended before the market began. And many of that
parish following their example (their minister, Mr Castle-
law, encouraging them to it), and some out of other
parishes went thither also, whereby the power of religion
was spread over that part of the country."

" I bless the Lord," says Robert Blair, " that ever I
was acquainted with that people, and for the help I had
by corresponding with blessed Mr Dickson after he left
the college and settled at Irvine." * There is little mention
made of Mr Castlelaw, who was minister of Stewarton
during the revival there, but we may judge that he was
a man of an excellent spirit, from his encouraging his
people to wait on Mr Dickson's Monday lecture, and
also from a little incident mentioned by Robert Blair :—
" The day I left Glasgow, riding to Dumbarton in the
company of Mr William Castlelaw, minister at Stewar-
ton, in whose pulpit I had often preached, I was so filled
with the consolations of the Holy Spirit, that I could
not conceal my joy ; and most part of the way, which is
about ten miles, he and I sang to the Lord's praise with
great cheerfulness." f

The revival at Stewarton, it appears, began in 1625,
and lasted for five years; " This," says Fleming, '« by
the profane rabble of that time, was called the Stewarton
sickness, — for in that parish first, but after, through much
of that country, particularly at Irvine under the ministry
of Mr Dickson, it was remarkable. It can be said (which
divers ministers and Christians yet alive can witness)
that for a considerable time few Sabbaths did pass with-
out some evidently converted, or some convincing proof
of the power of (rod accompanying his word ; yea, that
many were so choked and taken by the heart, through
terror, the Spirit in such a measure convincing them of

* Life of Blair, pp. 18, 19. \ B\&'% Meowu* \k 47.

IRVINE AND STEWARTON. 201

i in hearing of the word, that they have been made to
I over, and thus carried out of the church, — who after
ived most solid and lively Christians. And as was
>wn, some of the most gross who used to mock at
gion, being engaged upon the fame that went abroad
inch things, to go to some of these parts where the
pel was most lively, have been effectually reached
wre their return, with a visible change following the
ie* And truly this great spring-tide, as 1 may call
xf the gospel was not of a short time, but for some
n' continuance. Yea thus, like a spreading moor-
n, the power of godliness did advance from one place
mother, which put a marvellous lustre on these parts
the country, the savour whereof brought many from
ar parts of the land to see its truth." *
&r David Dickson was ordained in Irvine in 1618,
continued minister there for about twenty-three
re, when he was removed to the College of Glasgow,
was a man singularly gifted with an edifying way of
iching, and his painful labours were eminently blessed
h success. His conversing with those persons in
warton and other places in the west, on whose hearts
Spirit of the Lord had wrought in an extraordinary
iner, enabled him, with much experience, to deal
a awakened consciences; and therefore he was re-
«d to by such from all parts ; yea, Christians from
ly other places resorted to the communion at Irvine
do in the year. Woodrow says of him, " Mr Dickson's
ifetry was singularly countenanced of God — multi-
B8 were convinced and converted, and few that lived
lis day were honoured to be instruments of conversion
re than he. Not a few came from distant places and
led in Irvine that they might be under his ministry.
on the Sabbath evenings, many persons under soul
Tess used to resort to his house after sermon, when
ally he spent an hour or two in answering their cases,
. directing and comforting those who were cast down,
ill which he had an extraordinary talent. In a large

• FaimUng oftbe Scripturet, vol. \. p. 35fc, &&.

202 SCOTLAND.

hall in his house in Irvine there would have been, as I
am informed by old Christians, several scores of serious
Christians waiting for him when he came home from
church. Those, with the people round the town who
came in to the market, made the church as throng, ii
not thronger, on the Monday than on the Lord's Day.
The famous Stewarton sickness spread from house to
house for many miles in the Strath, where Stewarton
water runs on both sides of it. Satan, indeed, endea-
voured to bring a reproach upon the serious persons whc
were at this time under the convincing work of the
Spirit, by running some, seemingly under serious con-
cern, into excesses, — both in time of sermon and ii
families. But the Lord enabled Mr Dickson, and othei
ministers who dealt with them, to act so prudent a part
that Satan's design was much disappointed, — and solid
serious, practical religion flourished mightily in the wet
of Scotland about this time." * Mr Livingston, who ha<
the privilege of this good man's acquaintance, used i
portion of the forty-eight hours spared to him by th<
council before he was banished from Scotland to visi
David Dickson [1662], then aged and lying on his death
bed. " He told me that, as our acquaintance had continue*
near to forty years, he was glad that now we suffer©
for the same cause " (refusing to take the oath of supra
macy) ; " for he also upon that account was removed fro*
his own place in the College of Edinburgh. I enquire
how he found himself; he said, I have taken all m
good deeds, and all my bad deeds, and cast them togethe
in a heap before the Lord, and have betaken me to Jesu
Christ, and in him have full and sweet peace. Withii
a few days after he died." f

* Wodrow*8 preface to Dickson's Truth'* Victory over Error.
t Livingaton's Memoirs of Good Men of hU Time.

[ 203 ]

CHAPTER XIV.

JOHN STEVENSON.

Were it the object of an author to publish an account
of the righteous men in the army of that period, a volume
of biographical sketches, both interesting and edifying,
might still be recovered from the stream of time, down
which they are floating to oblivion. When men of pacific
occupations and prayerful dispositions resign the plough-
share for the sword, we may rest assured that the influ-
ence of wrath and vengeance have no power over them.
John Stevenson, a farmer in the parish of Dailly, was one
of those who fought at Bothwell Bridge ; his own account
of his motives for joining the army is most satisfactory,
but before extracting that passage from his little memoir,
we shall more justly appreciate the character of the man,
by reading his account of his conversion and general prac-
tices as to spiritual concerns. This also gives us a view
of the style and power of the preaching of John Welsh,
not the faithful minister of Ayr, for he was banished long
before the birth of Stevenson, but one of the faithful men
who, driven to the fields by persecution, delivered the
message of peace there. John Stevenson relates that his
heart was " first sensibly engaged to the good word of the
Lord in his youth, when there was no open vision, be-
cause faithful pastors were driven into corners." He
heard Mr Kennedy in the Hall of Killechan, he being
thrown out of his church of Lasswade by the rage of the
prelates. " Then and there," says he, " I fell in love
with the ordinances of God, and, through grace, have,
through several tribulations, adhered to the purity and
doctrine, discipline, government, and worship which is i
now established in the church of Scotland." He then I
relates his discouragements because of his ignorance ^wk "
of Christian experience, and temptations to ^&Ya2cts&

204 SCOTLAND.

thoughts, with which he had a grievous conflict, and was
only delivered from them as from a fearful pit and miry
clay.

" After this, in the year 1678, August 12th, I heard
Mr John Welsh, on Craigdow Hill, who preached on
2 Cor. v. 20., and insisted chiefly on this, ' We beseech
you be reconciled to God* In speaking to which words,
the Lord helped his servant, not only to show what
it is to be reconciled to God, but also earnestly to press
reconciliation ; and to make a free, full, and pressing offer
of glorious Christ as mediator, and day's-man, and the
great peace maker who would make up the breach, and
bring about this much needed reconciliation. I, being
fully convinced how greatly I needed this reconciliation
and dayVman, who is the only way to the Father, with
all my heart and soul did cordially and cheerfully make
the offer welcome ; and, without known guile, did accept
of and receive Christ, on his own terms, in all his offices
as mediator ; and did give myself away to the Lord in a
personal and perpetual covenant, never to be forgotten,
accepting of God for my Lord and my God, and guide to
death, and great reward after it ; resolving, though strange
Lords had had dominion over me, yet henceforth I would
be called by his name, whom I now avouched for my only
God and Lord. Upon which I took the heavens, earth,
and sun in the Armament that was shining on us, as also
the ambassador who made the offer, and clerk who raised
the psalms ; I say — I took all these to witness in the
judgment day, that I had uprightly and cheerfully entered
into this everlasting covenant, and resolved through grace
to be steadfast in it till death. After which my soul was
filled with joy and peace in believing ; it was a joy un-
speakable and glorious, having now got good hope through
grace, that though he was angry with me, yet his anger
was turned away, and he was become my salvation. I
rejoiced in the thoughts of my new relation to God the
Saviour, and felt the ravishing sweetness of a reconciled
state, and went away firmly resolving that I would walk
all my days in the bitterness of my soul, and never be
vainly lifted up, but would ieax tta Lot& «xA\a& ^wdnasa,

JOHN STEVENSON. 205

tfao had so far condescended to stoop so low as to pardon

s rebel, and be reconciled and pacified to me after all I

had done. And all my bones at this very time shall and

do cry oat, ' Who is a God like unto thee, a God keeping

covenant, and whose faithfulness and mercy endure to all

generations.'

" Though after this sensible and sweet covenanting with
God on the hill of Craigdow I always studied to improve
this covenant relation with God according to my various
cases, temptations, necessities, and distresses ; yet the most
memorable time of my renewing this covenant was at Craig-
darroch, in Nithsdale, in the year 1686; where, in secret
prayer, the Lord determined me to renew that covenant I
had entered into with him on Craigdow hill, and wonder-
fully condescended, as it were, to bring me nigh to his seat,
and filled my mouth with arguments, and allowed me to
plead with him as a man doth with a reconciled friend.
There was I helped with great enlargement to renew and
adhere to the everlasting covenant ; and there the kind
God manifested himself to me otherwise than to the
world ; and I may say that truly my fellowship was with
the Father and his Son Jesus Christ, in as sensible and
eminent a degree as I ever met with before or since,
though many times since he has been kind to my soul.

" Soon after this, while at Craigdarroch, my spirit was
overwhelmed within me, on account of a rising genera-
tion, and for fear of a departing God and glory. I was
frequently obliged to retire to solitary places, and with
an aching heart, trembling soul, and wringing of hands,
bewail the sad circumstances that poor posterity would be
in if God should leave these lands. I saw that the rage
of a prelatic persecution had banished many faithful shep-
herds — had put some of them to death, and that they
were restless in pursuing others — so that they had scat-
tered the Lord's flock, and made them wander on the
mountains in the dark and cloudy day; which obliged
Christ's sheep, who know his voice and will not follow a
stranger, to wander from sea to sea, and from one part of
the land to another, to hear the pure and good word of the
Lord, and many times could not nnd it. A\\ \V»& \&&£v%
my soul cast down within me, for all fiesta YrcA coyt\\»Wv

206 SCOTLAND.

their way. Those who were in power and authority seemed
to bid Christ depart out of our coasts, and many also were
the provocations of sons and daughters. Our solemn cove-
nants, by which we had bound ourselves to the Lord,
were too little regarded by a great many. All this filled
my soul with fear, lest glorious Christ should be provok-
ed not to return again to poor Scotland. Then I thought
if he would not return with a preached Gospel, in plenty
and purity, we had been the cruel generation who had
sent him away from ourselves and poor posterity ; which
obliged me, in deep distress, to lament over a rising gene*
ration, and earnestly to entreat that glory might yet
dwell in our land, and that he would return to us with *
departed glory."*

" I shall only add one thing more, which is, that I fre-
quently came to Kirkoswald, to spend a day in the church
in prayer and meditation, that I might be at some distance
from the hurry and noise of the world, for my conveni-
ence was not great at home, that so I might serve the
Lord without distraction. It was my ordinary to set
apart one day in the month for fasting and humiliation,
prayer and meditation, and I found great quiet for it in
the church of Kirkoswald. I staid in the minister's
when I was in that place, and went into the church in the
morning about sun-rising and came not out till sun-setting
in the longest summer day. And in case matters went
not well with me the first day, I usually spent the second
and sometimes the third in the foresaid duties, and found
this a great mean of holding my soul in life. Then I
could say, O how love I thy law ; it is my meditation
all the day, and it was ever with me; and I rejoiced
when I found his word as one who findeth great spoil, and
could say that I esteemed the words of his mouth more
than my necessary food." f

Such was the state of self-denied and well disciplined

feeling with which Stevenson joined the army of the

t covenant, and we have reason to believe that he was one

of many such Christians. He mentions being a soldier

incidentally, when relating to his children and grandchil-

# JLi/e of Stevenson, p. 6, 7, ft. \ Tto\&. ^. 4\.

JOHN STEVENSON. 207

i his experience of " remarkable providences, and
ms of prayer.'' But he shall speak for himself.
The first I shall mention is what I met with at Both-
, I am not ashamed to own I was there ; and do
ire it was not a spirit of rebellion against the king
government that took me there, as that rising up is
lerouslv reported by many. That which moved us
in together, yea appear in arms, was the necessary
tee of our lives, liberties, and religion ; for it is well
m how the enemies of God, and the enemies of our
religion did cut up the people as bread, and called
>n his name ; and wherever they met with honest
iters or private Christians, they either shot them,
hed, or dragged them to prison ; and for no other
n but because we worshipped the covenant God of our
rs, according to our conscience, and in the way we
m! was appointed of God. We would have taken
fully the spoiling of our goods, had not our enemies
it to lord it over our conscience, while we could not
it to them without incurring the displeasure of God.
i many of us could not be edified, by a set of men
I on us by the prelates. And it is well known how
lalous and immoral the generality of them were ; and
>r not joining in communion with men who were a
al to the Christian religion, we were hunted like
idges upon the mountains, and exposed to the rage of
loody soldiery, whose tender mercies we found to be
:j : yea, when we complained of our grievances to
in power, in the most humble, dutiful, and loyal way,
ere the more harassed and oppressed, as if our per-
ors had a mind to show to the world, that they were
sly void of humanity. All which considered, it was
onder we joined together for our common safety.
our uniting together was on the very principles
i our happy revolution was afterwards brought about,
ly the preserving ourselves and posterity from
ry, slavery, and arbitrary power,
having shown you what moved us to take up arms
rthwell, I come now to let you know the providence
; with there. While we lay at R&mV&o^\tefot^>fofc
ement, I observed all my acquaintance *xA oSfioKtfc

208 SCOTLAND.

providing head-pieces and breast-plates, and what wbb
necessary for their safety in the day of battle. I not having"
money to" spare on these things as some others had, looked
up to God, and took him for a covering to my head in the
day of battle, as he had been to David of old ; for I ob-
served that, whatever pieces of armour they had prepared
for their safety, there was still a possibility of their being'
slain. Wherefore, I humbly told the great God I would
entirely depend on him for a covering in the day of battle^
Accordingly, when our forces fled from before the enemy,
and all took what way they judged most proper for their
safety, I rode not through Hamilton with the rest, but
went about the town ; and having crossed a glen, when I
got to the other side of it, I espied a party of the enemy
just below me, and in the very way by which I behoved
to ride. I could not turn back without alarming them,
and therefore rode on. My comrade was riding just be-
fore me with his head-piece, and other pieces of armour
which he had provided for his safety. I saw him dismayed,
and that he could not well sit his horse from fear. On
which I whispered him to go on composedly ; and I went
before him with my carabine over my head, and my sword
drawn in my hand. The enemy came so close up to the
way, all standing under arms, that I could not avoid
touching clothes with them. On which their commander,
in a threatening way, asked me the word. I had resolved
not to speak, whatever they asked of this nature, because
I knew not their word, and thought it would irritate them
the more if I told them what was not their word. As
I spoke nothing but rode on, depending entirely on the
God whom I had chosen as my covering in the day of
battle, I got past them unmolested. But when my com-
rade came up, I heard the officer ask him the word * dog ;'
on which through fear he told them what was not their
word, which so provoked the commander that he struck
him over the head with his broad sword; which, by
reason of my comrade's head-piece, was broken in two.
This so enraged the commander, that he ordered some
of his men to fire, which they did, and killed him on the
^ spot, 1 still stepped on without the least hurry or con-

JOHN STEVENSON. 209

fittion, and they never in the least molested me. Just as
I passed by them, I saw Colonel Burns lying in his blood,
whom they had shot a little before. So that I must own
the Lord was my safety and the covering of my head in
the day of battle. He hid me as in the hollow of his
hand, and set remarkable bounds to the wrath of the
enemy. So the snare was broken, and I escaped as a bird
oat of the snare of the fowler ; and my sure and all-suffi-
cient help was in Jehovah's name who made the heavens
and the earth.

" From this time till our happy Revolution I was
obliged for nine years to retire and hide myself as much
as possible from the rage of my persecutors ; and fearing
if I were taken by them I should be tempted through
my weakness to any sinful oaths which they contrived
to ensnare souls, or be exposed to dreadful sufferings, I
set apart time for prayer, and pleaded with God that he
would make out graciously to me what he had promised
to do for his church and people in days of fiery trial * *
" And I must own, he remembered the word on which he
caused me to hope, and preserved me remarkably from
the enemy."

" Some time after this a troop of the enemy were
quartered about Dailly, and five were quartered upon my
father in Camragen. As they came to my father's they
were informed that I was that morning come to the
house ; for there were many informers in the country,
who sold themselves to destroy innocent blood, and that
for a piece of bread; they had described me to the soldiers,
and it was so that I had come from my hiding-place into
the house to get some refreshment. I had not designed
to sit down, when all of a sudden my sister and 1 heard
a great noise before the door. We ran to see what was
the matter, and found three of the five dragoons, who
asked if I was the good man of the house, or if I belong-
ed to the family ? I answered I was not the head of the
family, but I belonged to it. I expected the next ques-
tion would be, 'are you his son ?' but the Lord restrained
them from it for his wise ends and my safety. They
told me thej were to quarter with us, and &\%mGrontaA. k
and were in great rage. The Lori orAfcife& *o ^m^

210 SCOTLAND.

neither my sister nor I were the least daunted before
them. I spoke civilly to them, and told them to be calm
and easy, and they should get for themselves and horses
in great plenty. I offered them straw, hay or corn, and
took them into the garden and made up a bundle for
each of them of what they desired ; and I made up also
one for myself. I let them take up their bundles first and
return to the stable, and I followed. But when they
entered the stable door, I skipped back, and got over the
garden ditch, and so escaped from them. They were in
great rage at the disappointment, and when they met my
father, threatened to have him ruined for entertaining
such as. I in his house. But he turned the charge upon
them, and threatened to tell their commander, that they
had let me go after they had me in their custody ; upon
which they held themselves quiet. And so the Lord
kept me from that hour of temptation, as I had begged,
and as he had made me hope.

" Some time after this, some of the dragoons beiig
quartered in my father's, I was lying out by night and
by day on a neighbouring hill, to which I had my meat
sent me for ordinary. It fell out that the several troops
which lay at Girvan and Dailly were all to rendezvous,
and they which were quartered at my father's went to
meet with the rest at Girvan. I, seeing them go off,
came down from the hill where I used to lurk, and came
with a design to get some refreshment. Whilst I was
taking it, my father came in, and told me he saw some
dragoons coming back in great haste, and that they were
just at hand. Hjb desired me to fly for my life, and he
would divert them at the entry till I could hide myself
in the garden. I told him I would lie on the other side
of the garden in a blackberry-bush till he had got them
settled ; and when he had done so, he might bring mean
account, and I would go off. Accordingly, I went out,
and hid me in the bush, while my father helped them to
^ lay off their furniture ; for they were the dragoons who
used to stay with him, and had been sent back in haste.
Before they would go into the house, they would put
their horses to grass that night in the place where I lay
"lid. Whereupon one of the dtugooTxa, **&yc^ \kfc tasx^

k. ■.

JOHN STEVENSON. 211

came to eat blackberries off the very bush at the root of which
I lav* My father, seeing- him at the bush where I was,
<ried to him that he would poison himself, for in harvest
these berries were full of worms ; and in order to draw
him from the bush, he desired him to bring a berry, and
he would show him a worm in it. The dragoon went to
him with a berry, and my father opened it, and showed
him a worm in it, which is not uncommon at that sea-
son of the year ; and thus he was persuaded to go into
the house with the rest, and take meat. When they
were set down, my father came out, as if to take care
the horses should not break in upon the corn, and told
ae they were settled ; and so I stepped off to my ordi-
nary lurking-place upon the hills. And here again it is
evident that I dwelt under the shadow of the Most High,
and lay in the secret places of the Almighty, when my
enemy was so nigh and did not discover me — and I may
call the name of that bush Jehovah Jireh, for there he
was seen to appear for me, for now, when in great danger,
he did not inclose me in the enemy's hand."*

It may be thought that a portion of these extracts
diverges from the purposes of the work. The reason
they are given is to prove more fully the spirit of prayer-
ful dependence in which such men lived ; and to exhibit
the minute and tender care of the God whom they served,
when for conscience sake they were reduced to great
straits. John Stevenson lived till 1728, so that he en-
joyed the rich reward of seeing the church for which he
had fought, fasted, and wandered about, hiding in holes
and dens of the earth, established according to the desire
of his conscience. One cannot but sympathise in the
feelings of such a man, when from a position of security
he could " call to remembrance the former days in which,
after he was illuminated, he endured a great fight of
affliction, being made a gazing stock, both by reproaches
and afflictions ; and partly because he became a companion
of them that were so used. He had taken joyfully the
spoiling of his goods, knowing that in heaven he had a
better and an enduring substance." f

• Ltfe of SteveHiOB, p. 21, 22, 23, 24. \ T&tV x.^V

[ 212 2

f

CHAPTER XV.

GUTHRIE, AT FIN WICK.

Mr William Guthrie was, in 1644, ordaine
the sacred office, and settled in the west, over the n<
erected parish of Finwick. But before the first ya
his ministry had elapsed, when his solemn and li
representations of Christian truth had but just attra
the attention of the neglected and barbarous people
whom he was placed ; when also he had but just ent
into the holy bond of matrimony, a circumstance w
under the Mosaic economy would have formed an
emption from that sendee, he was appointed by
General Assembly to attend the army. He severed i
time the ties of home, and obeyed with cheerfuln*
mandate to which duty and patriotism alone could 1
reconciled him. After exercising an energetic infkn
over his comrades, and sharing with them some peri
encounters and some remarkable deliverances, he
turned to his people at Finwick, and recommenced
exertions there with a powerful effect.

His biographer states, that " the heavenly zeal for
glory of his great master which animated the laboui
this excellent minister, his fervent love to the soul
men dying in their sins, and his holy wisdom and •
gence in reclaiming and instructing them, were
honoured by God, and accompanied with the powe
influences of his holy Spirit, that in a little time a n<
change was wrought upon a barbarous multitude ; t
were almost all persuaded to attend the public o
nances, to set up and maintain the worship of Got
their families ; and scarce was there a house in the wl
parish that did not bring forth some fruit of his minis
id afford some real converts to a religious life, i

WILLIAM GUTHRIE. 213

thus he was made the instrument of many notable tri-
umphs of victorious grace, which Jesus Christ leads
over the souls of obstinate transgressors, when he turns
them from their ways, and subdues the people under
him." * * *

The historian dilates with much pleasure on Mr
Guthrie's skill in attracting the young, his power in
opening the Scriptures in catechising, his industry in
private instruction, his experience in mental conflict
and temptation, which taught him to sympathise with
and to succour the tempted, his success and the divine
blessing on his endeavours to reclaim sinners even on
their deathbeds. Another feature of his zeal to recover
those who were out of the way, reminds us of Charles
on the mountains of Wales, and of Grimshaw in the
wolds of Yorkshire.

" The state of his health made it necessary for him to
use frequent and vigorous exercise ; and this made him
choose fishing and fowling for his common recreations ;
but as he was always animated by a flaming zeal for the
glory of his Master, and a tender compassion to the souls
of men ; and as the principal thing that made him desire
life and health was, that he might employ them in pro-
pagating the kingdom of God, and turning transgressors
from their evil ways, so the very hours of his recreation
were dedicated to this purpose. He knew how to make
his diversions subservient to the nobler ends of his
ministry ; he made them the occasion of familiarizing
his people to him, and introducing himself to their affec-
tions, and in the disguise of a sportsman he gained some
to a religious life, upon whom he could have little influ-
ence in a minister's gown. Of this there happened
several memorable examples.

•« Some of the parish were so extremely rude and
barbarous, that they never attended upon divine worship,
and knew not so much as the face of their pastor. To
such every thing that regarded religion was distasteful ;
a minister would have been enough to frighten them ;
nor could he have access either to visitor catec\\\%fe\&&\fiu
Bnt what Mr Guthrie might almost o\\ietm%& \a«*

214 SCOTLAND.

despaired of, he effected by his diversions. In the habit
which he then wore, he conciliated the esteem and love
even of those ignorant creatures, and made use of their
cariosity, as well as nobler arguments, to bring them to
church ; so that the pulpit was the first place which dis-
covered to them that it was their minister himself who
had allured them thither. So condescending a method
of gaining them procured a constant attendance on pub-
lic ordinances ; and was at length accompanied by the
fruits of righteousness, which are through Jesus Christ
unto the praise of God." *

Livingston describes him in the following terms :—
" Mr William Guthrie, minister of Finwick, was a man
of a most ready gift and plentiful invention, with most
apposite comparisons, fit both to awaken and pacify con-
sciences, straight and steadfast in the public cause of

Christ. He was a great light in the west of Scotland.

* * * * #

" In his doctrine he was as full and free as any man
in Scotland had ever been, which, together with the
excellency of his preaching gift, did so recommend him
to the affections of people, that, they turned the corn
field of his glebe to a little town, every one building a
house for his family upon it, that they might live under
the drop of his ministry."

Many men would have felt the loss of the corn field,
owing to their straitened circumstances, enough to damp
their joy at being rendered so useful. But a bountiful
Providence enabled Mr Guthrie to welcome such en-
croachments on his field, as he was the owner of the estate
of Pitforthy in the shire of Angus. This crowding to
his ministry from great distances arose from the perse-
cutions, which had silenced, one after another, most of
the experienced men who were valiant for truth in those
days ; so that the scattered flocks thankfully took shelter
in the fold, at whatever inconvenience. Mr Crawford
says of Mr Guthrie, that " he was a burning and shining
light, kept in later than many others by the influence of

• Life of Cft&ne, ^. W VI,

WILLIAM GUTHRIE. 215

the old Earl of Eglinton, father-in-law to the Chancellor.
He converted. and confirmed many thousand souls, and
was esteemed the greatest practical preacher in Scotland.

" As God had designed and prepared him for eminent
and extensive services during this period, his excellent
accomplishments now exerted themselves with the great-
est efficacy, and his usefulness was diffused more univer-
sally through the whole country, which was in a great
measure deprived of pastors. Many there hungered
after the word of the Lord, and this made them with
more eagerness embrace the advantage which a merciful
Providence afforded them in Mr Guthrie's ministry.
Great multitudes resorted to him from all parts of the
west country ; his large church was crowded with hear-
ers from Glasgow, Paisley, Lanark and Hamilton, and
other distant places, and his strong and clear voice en-
abled him to extend the profit of his discourses to the
many hundreds who were obliged to stay without doors.

" An extraordinary zeal then enlivened the souls of
sincere Christians ; they were animated by a warm af-
fection to the truth, and an uncommon delight in hearing
the joyful sound ; and this made them despise the diffi-
culties that lay in the way, and bear cheerfully with
many inconveniences, which attendance upon the sacred
ordinances was then accompanied with, so that we are
assured by several worthy persons who enjoyed Mr Guth-
rie's ministry, that it was their usual practice to come
to Finwick on Saturday, spend the greatest part of that
night in prayer to God, and conversation about the great
concerns of their souls, attend on public worship on the
Sabbath, dedicate the remainder of that holy day to reli-
gious exercises, and then on the Monday go home, ten,
twelve, or twenty miles, without grudging the fatigue of
so long a way, and the want of sleep and other refresh-
ments, or finding themselves less prepared for any busi-
ness through the week, so much was their heart engaged
in the attendance they gave to these sacred administra*
tions. A remarkable blessing accompanied ordinances
that were dispensed to people who c&mem\.\v «vudcL%>&%
position of soul; great numbers wete coTNetVaWft 1 *

216 SCOTLAND.

truth, and many were built up in their most holy faith.
A divine power animated the gospel that was preached,
and exerted itself in a holy warmth and sanctified affec-
tions, a ravishing pleasure in divine fellowship, and a
noble joy and triumph in their King and Saviour, which
were to be visibly discerned in the hearers ; many were
confirmed in the good ways of the Lord, strengthened
and comforted against temporal fears and discourage*
merits ; and the fruits of righteousness discovered in the
excellency of a holy conversation, were a glorious proof
of the sincerity of their profession, and the wonderful
success of Mr Guthrie's ministry. Some of these at-
tested afterwards much more than is now said, and never
could think without an exultation of soul, and emotions
of revived affections, on the memory of their spiritual
father, and the power of that victorious grace which in,
those days triumphed so gloriously." *

It was impossible that Mr Guthrie should have be-
come the centre of such a circle without exciting pecu-
liar malice in the prelatical party. The wrath of the
Archbishop of Glasgow became at last so hot, that no
great man's patronage was sufficient to protect him. The
long threatened hour approached, and in preparation -to
meet it, Mr Guthrie and his flock kept a congregational
fast on the 20th July, 1664. He preached from the
words of Hosea, xiii. 9, " O Israel, thou hast destroyed
thyself." " And indeed," says the narrator, " the place-
was a Bochim." His own people and many others met
him at the churchyard of Finwick next Lord's day, be-
tween four and five in the morning, when he preached,
two sermons to them from the close of his fast-day text,
" But in me is thy help." He took leave of them, dis-
missing them before nine in the morning, commending
them to the great God, who was able to build them up,
and help them in the time of their need. Mr Guthrie
had much ado to protect the soldiers who came to take
jhim from the just indignation of his people. His influ-
ence prevailed, however, and the soldiers were permitted

■*■ * Life of GutVio, ^. fcl.

IRVINE AND STEWARTON. 217

to declare the church vacant. His sentence of suspension
was uttered, but he remained in the parish for more than
a year, his church being shut up, as no curate was ever
settled.

In October, 1665, this righteous man expired, when
be was in Angus settling some affairs relative to his
estate there. A contemporary remarks of him : " The
Presbyterian church lost one of its pillars in him, as he
was one of the most eloquent, successful, and popular
preachers that ever was in Scotland." *

To obtain the view required by this work, we are con-
strained to pass from point to point, with what may, to a
cursory reader, seem a neglect of dates and a confusion of
periods. But in fact, the desire of furnishing a glimpse of
the spiritual influences which accompanied the army
through a long period of vicissitudes, can only be accom-
plished by such hints as are here drawn together. The re-
newals of the Solemn Covenant, too, which arose and sub-
sided, — now, according to the political aspect of affairs,
seeming little the subject of care, and again engaging all
hearts in the religious world, in proportion as the spirit
of devotion ebbed and flowed in the country, — occupied
such a variety of stations, and occurred at such a variety
of dates, that it has seemed best, as no accurate history
of that memorable period is contemplated here, to afford,
a specimen of the pervading spirit here and there as it
presents itself, without solicitude as to binding it to-
gether.

It has been objected, that the revivals which took
place in 1590, and afterwards under the preaching of
Welsh, Bruce, and others, arose so soon after the Re-
formation, and in times of such public excitement, that
they are not to be trusted, — as men's minds were in a
state of ferment on the subject of religion, and they
adopted opinions in the spirit of party, rather than prin-
ciples in the spirit of faith. Will any candid reader of'
the fruit of the Ayr revivals, seeing a town of blows and
strife turned into a town of peace and love ; and such

* Life of Guthrie, p. 56.

218 SCOTLAND.

examples of the power of Christian principle as are ex-
hibited by Kennedy and Stewart, persist in calling this
a political excitement or a religion of faction ? It is
true these events occurred during the progress of the
Reformation ; and had that been a mere human or poli-
tical work, it might be suspected. But did the Refor-
mation originate with man or with God ? Was there
not every thing of earthly interest to quash enquiry, and
rivet people silently in their errors ? Were not tranquil-
lity, the esteem of man, property, country, life, often the
forfeit of enquiring into the truth ? Is it the Spirit of
God that alone can change the heart, and are we to cry
out enthusiasm and excitement at the news of a great
conversion work, because it took place near the time of
the Reformation ? What constituted the Reformation ?
It was a poor imperfect work, indeed, if it only made such a
revolution in men's opinions as the introduction of the
Newtonian system did in science. No ; it is because the
Reformation touched souls — it is because it is the work
of the Holy Spirit, that it remains to this day. And
we ought to bless the Lord continually that he " excited "
men's souls at the time of the Reformation. Again, it
has been said that the revival at Stewarton was a mere
popular commotion against the purposes of Charles I.
and the court, who were attempting to impose Episcopacy
on an unwilling people. And in the same spirit it has
been alleged that, because the great day of the Lord at
Shotts, the particulars of which we shall presently relate,
occurred when the people must have met under terror of
the High Court of Commission, which we feel disposed
to entitle the Scottish Inquisition, therefore the work
could not be genuine. It is true that minds agitated by
civil and religious oppression are more easily excited than
they are in ordinary times of quiet. But it is also true,
that the Lord takes advantage of times of affliction to
press the hearts of men into his peace ; and happily, in
these cases, the fruits have proved that they were not
the emotions of emulation, wrath, and strife ; but of love,
> and peace in believing.

[ 219 ]

CHAPTER XVI.

KIRK OF SHOTTS.

John Livingston, who was the immediate instru-
ment of the awakening at Shotts, preached his first ser-
mon six years before. He had the happiness of early
religious training, and the advantage of attending the
ministry of many excellent men, such as Robert Bruce
and Patrick Simpson. It is interesting to observe the
progress of his mind. His own wish to study medicine,
and his father's wish that he should, for some politic
reason, marry, and settle early on his estate, both lost
their influence, when the desire to become a preacher of
the gospel took possession of him. In great perplexity
of mind he retired to a cave on the south side of Mouse-
water, to spend a day before God ; a place endeared to
him, doubtless, by the most deeply cherished associations,
as he takes pleasure in describing the spot minutely after
the lapse of years. After much tossing of mind, and
confusion and fear about the state of his own soul, it
seemed clearly his duty to preach Christ Jesus. " Upon
this," he says, " I laid aside all thought of France, and
medicine, and land, and betook me to the study of
divinity."

Mr Livingston, when a preacher, was affectionately
called by the people of Torphichen, but because of his
non-conformity, was refused ordination by the Bishop of
St Andrews. He was frequently engaged to preach
there, as well as in the parish of Shotts, which borders
on it. Of his last Sabbath at Torphichen he says, " it
was the sweetest, though sorrowful, that I had seen
there. The people were very desirous to hear tb& ^to^
and the Lord furnished the more to \>e pteac\ie& to \taa\su

220 SCOTLAND.

In the memoir of Lis own life, Livingston gives a
brief account of the day at Shotts, which we are now to
record, but he omits some particulars which are related
by Gillies, while the others are exactly the same ; we,
therefore, extract from Gillies's Collections, rather than
from the memoir.

A few circumstances connected with the Kirk of Shotts,
previous to the memorable 21st of June, 1630, will put
us in possession of the state of the parish and neighbour-
hood, and prove again, what has been shown ever of old,
that when the Lord designs mercy to his people, he
awakens the spirit of prayer, so that their hearts may
be prepared to receive the blessing. It also proves that
there " is no restraint to the Lord to save by many or
by few ; " for it was not an experienced servant of the
church, nor a man possessing weight in a worldly point
of view, whom the Lord honoured in this affair ; but a
young preacher, as will be seen, who was so intimidated
at the idea of addressing an audience which contained
many experienced and prayerful members, that in the
morning he actually set out to absent himself from the
congregation, that he might escape the duty imposed upon
him. Gillies thus describes the parish and neighbour-
hood:

" As the Kirk of Shotts lies on the road from the
west to Edinburgh, and is distant from any convenient
place of entertainment, some ladies of rank, who had
occasion to pass that way, met at different times with
civilities from the minister, at his house, which was
situated where the public inn is now. Particularly once,
when some misfortune had befallen their chariot, they
were obliged to pass a night in the minister's house."
(This minister was Mr John Hance.) " They observed
that the house was much out of repair, and very incom-
modiously situated, and used their influence to get a
more convenient house built for him in another place.
After receiving such a substantial favour, the minister
waited on them to enquire if there was any thing in his
power by which he might testify his gratitude. They
w^Uied, that he would oblige \\xem rnxxOa Vj writing

KIRK OF SHOTTS. 221

certain ministers, eminent in promoting practical religion,
to assist at his communion. It is said that Mr Robert
Brace was one of the number engaged by Mr Hance in
consequence of this request. The report of this spread-
ing far and near, multitudes of persons of different ranks
attended there, so that for several days before the Sacra-
ment, there was much time spent in social prayer.

" It was not usual, it seems, in those times, to have any
sermon on the Monday, after dispensing the Lord's Sup-
per. But God had given so much of his gracious pre-
sence, and afforded his people so much communion with
himself on the foregoing days of that solemnity, that
they knew not how to part without thanksgiving and
praise. There had been a vast confluence of choice
Christians, with several eminent ministers, from almost
all corners of the land, who had been many of them
together several days, hearing and joining together in
companies in prayer, praise, and spiritual conferences.
While their hearts were warm with the love of God, the
desire of a public service on the Monday became general.
John Livingston, chaplain to the Countess of Wigtoun,
aged 27, not ordained, was with much ado prevailed upon
to think of giving the sermon. He had spent the night
before in prayer and conference ; but when he was alone
in the fields, about eight or nine in the morning, there
came such a misgiving of heart upon him, under a sense
of unworthiness and unfitness to speak before so many
aged and worthy ministers and so many eminent and
experienced Christians, that he was thinking to have
stolen quite away, — and was actually gone away to some
distance. But when just about to lose sight of the Kirk
of Shotts, these words, * was I ever a barren wilderness,
or a land of darkness ? ' were brought into his heart with
snch an overcoming power, as constrained him to return
and comply with the call to preach.

" This he did with good assistance, for an hour-and-half,
on the points he had meditated, from Ezek. xxxvi. 25, 26,
« Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye
shall be clean from all your filthiness, — and from all your

222 SCOTLAND.

idols will I cleanse you. A new heart also will I give
yon, and a new spirit will I put within you, and I will
take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will
give you an heart of flesh/ As he was about to close,
a heavy shower made the audience hastily put on their
cloaks and mantles. But instead of hurrying to seek
shelter, they remained where they were, and the preacher
began to address them to the following purpose : * If t
few drops of rain from the clouds so discompose you, how
discomposed will you be, how full of horror and despair,
if God should deal with you as you deserve ? and thus lie
will deal with all the Anally impenitent. God might
justly rain fire and brimstone upon us, as upon the cities
of the plain. The Son of God, by tabernacling in our
nature, and obeying and suffering in it, is the only refuge
and covert from the storm of divine wrath due to us for
sin. His merits and mediation alone are the screen from
that storm, and none but penitent believers shall have
the benefit of that shelter/ In these, and expressions
to this purpose, he was led on for about an hour after he
had done with what he had premeditated, in a strain of
exhortation and warning, with great enlargement and
melting of heart." *

In reviewing his life as a preacher, Mr Livingston
says, " I was often much deserted and cast down in
preaching, and sometimes tolerably assisted. I ne?er
preached a sermon that I would be earnest to see again
in writ, but two. The one was at a communion on a
Monday at the Kirk of Shotts, and the other on a Mon-
day after a communion in Holywood (Ireland), and
both these times I had spent the whole night before in
conference and prayer with some Christians, without any
more than ordinary preparation ; otherwise my gift was
suited rather to simple common people, than to learned
judicious auditors." j

Fleming makes mention of the day at Shotts in his
own peculiar manner of solemn joy and thanksgiving.

* Gillies's Collections. t Life of Livingston, p. 62.

KIRK OF SHOTTS. 223

" I must also mention that solemn communion at the
Kirk of Shotts, at which time there was so convincing
an appearance of God, and downpouring of the Spirit
eren in an extraordinary way, which did follow the ordi-
nances, especially on Monday, 21st of June, when there
was a strange unusual motion on the hearers, who in a
gTeat multitude were there convened of divers ranks.
It was known, as I can speak on sure ground, that near
five hundred had at that time a discernible change wrought
on them, of whom most proved lively Christians after-
wards. It was the sowing of a seed through Clyddis-
dale> so that many of the most eminent Christians of
that country could date either their conversion or some
remarkable confirmation of their case from that day. It
was the more remarkable, that one, after much reluc-
tance, by a special and unexpected Providence, was called
to preach that sermon on the Monday, which was not
then usually practised ; and that the night before, by
most of the Christians there, was spent in prayer; so
that the work of that Monday might be discerned as a
convincing return to prayer." *

Dr Gillies, with his usual caution, furnishes testimo-
nials to the credibility of Mr Fleming as a man of high
integrity and piety ; and also states, that his opportuni-
ties of information with regard to the revival at Shotts were
not to be doubted. His ministerial life was passed at
Cambuslang, within twelve miles of this interesting
spot, from 1653 to 1661, just twenty-three years after ;
and being a minister in the same presbytery, he must
have enjoyed frequent opportunities of conversing with
some of the subjects of that refreshing visitation, and
with others who had opportunities of observing their
consistent Christian demeanour during a course of years.
As particular instances are more edifying than general
statements, we again are called upon to regret the ab-
sence of more ample details, both of the effect of the
sermon at the time it was preached and afterwards. How-
ever, the evidence is indubitable that here, as in the

* Fleming's Fulfilment of the Scivptam*

I

224 SCOTLAND.

revival at the city called Sychar, of old, the narrative of
which is as brief, many were brought to " know that
this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world."

" The following instances of sound conversion are
well attested, and were it proper, the persons could be
named. On that remarkable Monday, three gay young
gentlemen of Glasgow were travelling to Edinburgh, for
the purpose of enjoying the public diversions there. They
stopped to breakfast at Shotts. One of them proposed
to his associates to stay and hear the young man who
was to preach, while their horses rested. And that
they might not lose time, they agreed to quit the wor-
ship at the end of the sermon, and not wait for the con-
cluding devotional exercises. But the power of God
so arrested them, that they could not quit the spot till
all was over. When they returned to the public house
to take their horses, they called for some refreshment ;
but when it was placed on the table, they all looked to
each other, no one durst touch it till a blessing was asked,
and as it was not their manner formerly to be careful
about such things, one of them at last proposed, — * I
think we should ask a blessing to our drink.' The
others readily agreed, and put it upon one of the com-
pany to do it, which he at once agreed to. When they
had done, they could not rise until another should re-
turn thanks. They went on their way more sober and
sedate than usual, but none of them mentioned their
inward concern to another, only now and then they re-
marked, ' Was it not a great sermon we heard?' or, ' I
never heard the like of it/ They went to Edinburgh,
but instead of plunging into light amusements, as they
had designed, they kept their rooms great part of the
two days while they remained ; and then, being quite
weary of Edinburgh, they returned home. They still
did not open their minds to each other on their way, and
when they reached home they kept their apartments, and
came little abroad. At last one of them visited another, and
discovered to him what God had done for him at Shotts.
The other frankly owned the concern he was brought

der at the same time. Both of them went to the

GENERAL EFFECTS. 225

third, whom they found in the same case, and they three
agreed directly to begin a fellowship meeting. They
continued to have a practice suitable to their profession
as long* as they lived, and some of them lived to an ad-
vanced age, and were eminent and useful men in Glas-
gow.

" Another instance, still preserved, is that of a poor
man, a horse-hirer in Glasgow, who had been employed
by a gentlewoman to carry her to Shotts. He was en-
gaged in pasturing his horse at a small distance from the
tent, not concerning himself about the occasion of meet-
ing at all. In the latter part of the sermon, when the
power of God was so much felt, he apprehended that
there was a more than ordinary concern among the
people ; his own mind was affected in a way that he could
not account for; he hastily rose up and ran into the
congregation, where he was made a sharer of what the
Holy Spirit was distributing among them that day." *

Mr Andrew Gray of Chrystoun, an eminently pious
gentleman, whose name has descended in sweet memorial
even to this day, states the following particulars of the
more diffused effects of this period of awakening, which
we select from some others.

*' Two springs of the revival of religion in this cor-
ner were the famous sermon at the Kirk of Shotts, and
the labours of Mr Robert Bruce. As at the sermon at
Shotts, a good number of people were by grace made
acquainted with the life and power of religion, so several
of them were eminently good men, and remarkable not
only for a pious, inoffensive behaviour, but also for their
abounding in all those good fruits which pure and unde-
fined religion enables its sincere followers to produce.
This made them not only esteemed and revered by many
of their neighbours, but also produced some respect
for religion itself, from which they procured many ad-
vantages, its followers being readier to do them all kind
of good offices than other people. Among other good
fruits, you cannot doubt a strong inclination to promote

* GUliea'a Collections, vol. 1. p. $\0, ^\\.

P

226 8C0TLAXD.

the spiritual good of others was a principal one. Ai
the labourers were then few in this part of God's via*
yard, he seemed to have inspired these private Christies
with an uncommon degree of love to the souk of men
inciting them to labour by all proper methods, to briag
others acquainted with that grace which had produce*
such blessed effects on themselves ; and their labours wen
not without a considerable effect. They were called tb
Puritans of the Muir of Bothwell, perhaps by way «
reproach, by those who were ill affected towards them."

Messrs Bennet, Ramsay, and Carstairs were cotes*
porary, shortly after the time of Bruce and Livingston
and were mutually helpful in promoting a lively work «
grace in the west. And Mr Thomas Melvin of CaUer
of whose ministry it is stated, that in a few years tb
worship of God was so generally set up in families m.kk
parish that it was counted a scandal to such as neglected
it, and the number of praying societies rose from om
to eight or ten. These men were blessed in extending
the knowledge of the gospel by the more ordinary means
but as we are in search of singular effusions of divim
grace, that, on a Monday after the celebration of the Lasl
Supper at Kirkintilloch, comes more under our particU'
lar notice. " The people being detained in church by t
sudden fall of rain, Mr Carstairs (not their own minister,
but the minister of Cathcart) stept into the pulpit, and
in an extempore discourse, wherein he described the na-
ture of faith, and cautioned them against mistakes about
it, especially against depending on a sort of faith that
they had all their days, and knew not how they came by,
declaring faith to be a work of the Spirit of God with power
— there arose a mighty commotion in the congregation ;
many were brought into a deep concern about their soul's
condition, the good fruit of which appeared in their after
life and conversation. A similar instance is remembered
at Calder, where the same Mr Carstairs officiated for Mr
Melviu, who had been taken with a fit of sickness during
the sacramental solemnities. While they were singing

t of the 24th Psalm, ' Ye gates lift up your heads,'
before the blessing of the elements, there was a

^jart

GENERAL EFFECTS. 227

mighty melting of heart seized the congregation, and the
spirit of God, like a mighty wind, burst open the ever-
lasting doors, and took possession of the hearts of sin-
ners, several people from that day dating their first soul-
concern and conversion. Mr Carstairs used to say, he
had three days of heaven upon earth, and one of them
was at Calder. The exemplary life and conversation of
the clergymen we have mentioned, as well as their labours
and zeal for winning souls to Christ, raised the credit of
the ministry high among good people. They loved them
as their own souls, attended the ordinances with earnest-
ness and joy, and considered the want of them as the
greatest loss they could possibly sustain. This appeared
when, after their ministers were turned out at the Resto-
ration, multitudes attended their preaching in the fields
at the hazard of their lives/'*

Gillies also affords some hints, which one cannot but
regret, for the benefit of later ages, he has not extended
to full and particular accounts-—such as " I have seen
a manuscript in which there is an account of a remark-
able pouring out of the Spirit of God on a company
of ministers and Christians, at a private meeting at
Sheens, near Edinburgh, on the day when the five ar-
ticles of Perth were voted and passed in Parliament ; par-
ticularly when Mr David Dickson " (then a young man)
" prayed. I have often heard that the period between
1650 and the Restoration was a very remarkable one
in Scotland for the success of the Gospel. 1 have heard
old Christians speak of a remarkable reviving and un-
common power attending the word, immediately after the
Revolution, in the West and South of Scotland, in Fife,
Lothian, &c. Particularly I have heard of a remarkable
communion at Stow, near Galashiels, just about the
time of the Revolution." In short, there are abundant
and continually recurring evidences that the power of
the Holy Spirit has been manifested in this country, in
the revival form, and in no scanty measure. And again
and again, the earnest enquiry returns, Why is it not so

* Gilliea'a Collections, vol. \. p. &\4»

228 SCOTLAND.

with us now ? It will be found that it is our infidelity
on the subject which straitens our expectations and stints
our petitions. We are so filled with suspicion and incre-
dulity, that we require more evidence to prove what God
has really done, what he has many times promised in his
word to do, and what a lively faith would lead us to be
daily looking and watching for, than we should require to
convince us of any most improbable or unlikely thing.
Our eyes are so bent earthward, looking on the corrup-
tion of man and his inaptness to acquire a spiritual mind,
that we contemplate nothing but hypocrisy, delusion,
enthusiasm, and falling away. Why do we thus forget
the Almighty arm that upholds every faithful soul?
Why do we not believe the promise of the very God of
peace, that He will bruise Satan under our feet ? Why
do we lose sight of Christ the anointed King, who reigns
now in the souls of thousands, and who must reign till
all enemies are put under his feet ? Let us accept with
gladness the evidences that our King is still walking in
the midst of his church ; and while we try the spirits, and
make sure work of conversion where our own influence
reaches, let us not, by our cold and thankless reception
of good tidings, quench the spirit of hope and the spirit
of prayer, and render ourselves unmeet for the reception
of so great a blessing.

[ 229 ]

CHAPTER XVII.

CAMBUSLANG.

It is interesting, when entering on the revival in this
parish, to remark that it was the scene of Mr Fleming's
labours for eight years ; and though that faithful man,
whose whole soul seems absorbed in observing the Lord's
goings in the sanctuary, and the progress of the know-
ledge of divine things in the world, was removed from
that place eighty years before the awakening in 1742,
yet we are disposed to think the societies for prayer,
alluded to in the narrative as having subsisted several
years before, might have taken their origin during his
ministrations.

The church seems to have been so little in the atti-
tude of looking out for the conversion of souls, as the
effect of its own ministrations, or so many years had
elapsed since the Lord had manifested himself in great
power after that manner in it, that the good news from
Cambuslang is presented not in the simple and attractive
form of a plain and unsuspected statement of what the
Spirit had done, but in the more repulsive shape of at-
testations to its truth. This mode, however, has its
advantages, especially as regards those who may be in-
clined to be sceptical, and we retain it on account of the
well known names of eminent Christians which are
appended to the attestations, rather than weaken its force
by casting it into the shape of narrative.

Cambuslang is only four miles distant from Glasgow,
several parishes of which, but chiefly the Barony, were
made partakers of the good gifts dispensed at that period.
Many of the neighbouring clergy attested what they
witnessed ; M'Knight from Irvine, Webster itom ¥*&xv-
burgh, and Williaon from Dundee, ataoc&mfe to \*&*3&

230 Scotland.

that blessed sight. The first letter, dated May 8, bears
no signature : —

" SIR, May 8, 1742.

" As the report of the good work at Cambuslang,
which has for several weeks engaged the attention of
numbers in this city and country in the neighbourhood,
is now spread over a great part of the nation, it is no
wonder that one who lives at the distance you do should
be curious to have a true relation of it ; anil as I would
be glad of any opportunity to serve you, it is very agree*
able to me to think that I can gratify you in this matter;
especially in what concerns the people in that parish and
some other parishes near it, having had opportunity to
converse fully with the minister of Cambuslang, and with
many of the people there who are under this spiritual
exercise, and also with some other ministers who have
several in their parishes who appear to be under the
same happy impressions.

" There is one thing in the entry I must apprize you
of, viz., That I am to confine myself to a simple narra-
tion of facts, as the evidences on which the opinion of
many concerning the present happy change that if
wrought in that people is founded, without entering into
any reasoning, but leaving it to yourself to draw proper
conclusions from the facts, after comparing them with
scripture rules and instances.

" I must also acquaint you, as it was natural to expect,
when, on a singular occasion of this sort, great numbers
of people from adjacent towns and country came flocking
to a place that became so remarkable, that in such a
promiscuous multitude some counterfeits would readily
happen. It was the early care of ministers who interested
themselves most in that matter to enter into a strict
examination of those who appeared to be under more
than ordinary concern, so as to obtain satisfaction to
themselves whether the work was Bolid, being justly
apprehensive that the powers of darkness would not fail
to employ their devices to bring contempt on what would
tend ao much to the honour ol t\& $rag&»

CAMBUSLANG. 231

" In these watchful endeavours it must be owned, that
some impostors were found to have mixed with the sin-
cere ; but there is reason to bless God that, so far as yet
appears, they have been very few ; and as these have
been severely rebuked, so the most awful warnings have
been given against all such insincere pretensions, which
warnings, there is reason to believe, have had very good
effects.
" Now, sir, to give the short history of this matter : —
" The minister of that parish, in his ordinary course
of sermons for nearly a twelvemonth before this work
began, had been preaching on those subjects which tend
most directly to explain the nature and prove the ne-
cessity of regeneration, according to the different lights
in which that important matter is represented in holy
scripture : and for some months before the late remark-
able events a more than ordinary concern about religion
appeared among that people ; one good evidence of which
was, that about the end of January last a petition was
given in to the minister, signed by about ninety heads
of families, desiring a weekly lecture should be set up,
which was readily granted, and the day fixed on Thurs-
day, as most convenient for the temporal interests of the
parish.

On Monday, the 15th of February, 1742, there was a ge-
neral meeting at the minister's house of the particular socie-
ties for prayer that had subsisted in the parish for several
yean before : on Tuesday there was another meeting for
prayer there, the occasion of which was a concert with
several serious Christians elsewhere about solemn prayer
relating to the public interests of the gospel ; in which
concert only a small number of people in Cambuslang
were engaged at first, but others getting notice of
it desired to join, and were admitted. The people
who met for prayer these two days apprehended they
had been so well employed, and found so much leisure
for it, that they had a third meeting on Wednesday ; but
on all these three days they returned timeouely in the
evening to their own bouses, so far is it from being true

I

i

232 SCOTLAND.

that they rushed from some of these meetings to the
church, where they continued for some days and nights,
as was reported.

" Before Thursday, February 18th, they had week-
day sermons only on Thursdays, according to the above-
mentioned desire of the parish ; and before that day,
though several particular persons came to the minister
from time to time, under deep concern for their salvation,
yet there came no great numbers together. But on that
day, after sermon, a considerable number of people, reckon-
ed by some present about fifty, came together to the mi-
nister's house, under convictions and alarming apprehen-
sions about the state of their souls, and desiring to speak
with him.

" From this unexpected number coming in an evening
in so great distress, and the necessity of the minister's
exhorting them in general, and conversing with many of
them separately, you will easily perceive that he behoved
to spend that night with them, as he did the best part of
two or three more since this work began, which is now
about twelve weeks.

" After this, numbers daily resorted to that place,
some to hear the word, some to converse with those who
were under this remarkable concern, and others with
different views ; and the desires and exigencies of those
were such, that the minister found himself obliged, with-
out any previous intimation, to provide them with daily
sermon, a few days excepted ; and, after sermon, usually
to spend some time with them in exhortations, prayers,
and singing of psalms, being especially encouraged thereto
by the extraordinary success with which God was pleased,
from time to time, to bless his own ordinances; in so much
that, by the best information that could be had, the num-
ber of persons awakened to a deep concern about salvation,
and against whom there is no known exception as yet,
has amounted to above three hundred. And through the
blessing of God, the work seems to be still making con-
siderable progress every week, and more for some weeks
of late than sometime formerly.

CAMBUSLANG. 233

" Of the number just now mentioned, the far greater
part have already given, both to ministers and other se-
rious Christians, a good account of what they have felt
in their convictions and humiliation for sin, of the way
of their relief by faith in the mercy of God through
Christ, and of what they feel in the prevalent inclinations
and disposition of their hearts.

" As to their devotion and other parts of their practice,
which is that which chiefly attracts the attention and
regard of this country, there are comfortable accounts
given of it by those who have the best and most fre-
quent opportunities of knowing their daily behaviour.

" The parish of Cambuslang being of so small extent,
that most of the people live within a mile of the church,
and some who have the best intelligence being almost
every day with the minister, he and they have abundant
opportunities to know the practice of such of the people I
am speaking of as live within their bounds ; and the ac-
count they give of it is, that they appear to be in a very
hopeful way ; and the like good accounts are given by
several ministers and others of such of those people as
belong to the neighbouring parishes.

" Among the particular good fruits already appearing,
both in Cambuslang and elsewhere, the following instan-
ces seem very encouraging. A visible reformation of the
lives of persons who were formerly notorious sinners,
particularly the laying aside of cursing and swearing, and
drinking to excess among those who were addicted to
that practice ; remorse for acts of injustice, and for vio-
lations of relative duties, confessed to the persons wronged,
joined with new endeavours after a conscientious dis-
charge of such duties ; restitution, which has more than
once been distinctly and particularly inculcated in public
since this work began ; forgiving of injuries ; all desi-
rable evidences of fervent love to one another, to all
men, and even to those that spoke evil of them ; and
among those people, both in Cambuslang and other pa-
rishes, more affectionate expressions of regard than ever
to their own ministers, and to the ordinances dispensed
by them; the keeping up divine woi&up m taca&s&

2S4 SCOTLAND.

where it was neglected very often by some, and entirely
by others ; the erecting of new societies for prayer, both
old and young, partly within the parish, where no less
than twelve such societies are newly begun, and partly
elsewhere, among persons who have been awakened on
this occasion ; and, together with all these things, ardent
love to the Holy Scriptures, vehement thirsting after
holy ordinances, earnest desires to get private instruc-
tions in their duty from ministers and others, with com-
mendable docility and tractableness in receiving such
instructions.

" This thirst after knowledge is particularly remark-
able in those who were more ignorant, several who can-
not read, and some of them old persons, being so desirous
to be better acquainted with the word of God, that they
are resolved to learn to read, and some of the younger
sort actually putting themselves to school.

" I would farther add, that these good impressions
have been made on persons of very different and opposite
characters and ages — on some of the most abandoned as
well as the more sober ; on young as well as old ; on the
illiterate as well as the more knowing ; on persons of a
slower as well as those of a quicker and more sprightly
genius ; and, which seems to deserve special attention,'
oh persons who were addicted to scoffing at sacred things,
and at this work in particular at the beginning of it.

" The sum of the facts I have represented to you is,
that this work has been begun, and carried on under the
influence of the great and substantial doctrines of Chris-
tianity, pressing jointly the necessity of repentance te-
wards God, of faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, and
holiness in aU manner of conversation ; that it came
after such preparations as an extensive concern about
religion gradually increasing, — together with extraordi-
nary fervent prayer in large meetings, particularly relating
to the success of the gospel ; that great and successful
pains have been taken to discover and discountenance hypo-
critical pretences, and to warn people against what might
have the least appearance of enthusiasm or delusion; that
^ the account given by a very targe xHOLtohet of ^eo^la of their

CAMBU8LANG. 235

inward exercises and attainments seems to agree with the
Scripture standard, and they are bringing forth in practice
fruits meet for repentance, comprehending the several
branches of piety, and of the most substantial morality,
that can entitle men to the regard of friends of religion
ind virtue,

" And now, sir, I have given you a plain and simple
account of the most material facts relating to this extra-
ordinary work at Cambuslang, and those awakened there
belonging to other parishes, — in all which I have avoided
disputing, and studied brevity.

« I leave it to you to judge how far such facts make
it evident that this work is from God, when (to use the
words of a pious divine treating of a subject of the same
nature) he that was formerly a drunkard lives a sober
life ; when a vain, light, and wanton person becomes grave
and sedate ; when the blasphemer becomes a praiser of
God ; when carnal joy is turned into heaviness, and that
professedly on account of their soul's condition ; when
the ignorant are filled with the knowledge of divine
things, and the tongue that was dumb in the things of
God speaks the language of Canaan ; when secure sin-
ners have been roused with a witness about the state of
their souls, those who were ignorant can speak skilfully
about religious things, and even the graceless are increa-
sed in knowledge ; swearers drop their oathB, and speak
reverently of God. Vain persons, who minded no reli-
gion, but frequented taverns and frolics, passing their
time in filthiness, foolish -talking, and jesting, or singing
paltry songs, do now frequent Christian societies (for
prayer), seek Christian conversation, and talk of soul-
concerns, and choose to express their mirth in Psalms,
and hymns, and spiritual songs. Those who were too
sprightly to be devout, and esteemed it an unmanly thing
to shed tears for their souls' state, have mourned as for
an only son, and seemed to be in bitterness as for a first-
born ; and persons who came to mock at the lamentations
of others have been convinced, and by free grace prose-
lyted to such ways as they formerly despised.

" I am, *\r? &c.

236 SCOTLAND.

Attestation by Mr John Hamilton, Minister of the

Gospel in Barony.

" I understand it is expected from me, that I should
declare my sentiments of the extraordinary work at
Cambuslang, as a good many of my parishioners have
lately been awakened there to a great concern about their
souls' happiness.

" As soon as I was informed of their condition, I made
it my business to wait on them, and found a good many
persons under the deepest exercise of soul, crying out
bitterly of their lost and miserable state by reason of sin,
of their unbelief in despising Christ and the offers of the
gospel — of the hardness of their hearts, and their former
gross carelessness and indifferency about religion; and
though some of them said they had regularly attended
the preaching of the gospel, yet they acknowledged with
much regret their misimprovement of it. How many sweet
sermons they had heard without any benefit, and they came
to church without any design to be instructed, but only,
as they said, to see and be seen.

" I have heard them expressing a great deal of sorrow
for these things, and seemingly in the most serious and
sincere manner ; and not so much, as some of them have,
told me, from the fear of punishment, to which they had
thereby exposed themselves, as from a sense of the dis-
honour they had done to God and the blessed Redeemer,
and frequently aggravated their sins, from this considera-
tion, that they had been the betrayers and murderers of
the Lord of glory.

" And though I have seen some of them under ex-
treme affliction and distress, 1 could never observe the
least disorder in their judgments ; but their complaints
are always suitable to their condition. Neither have I
found any of them carried away with despairing thoughts
of the mercy of God, but all of them seemed to be seek-
ing relief in the method the gospel proposes, and express-
ed the warmest desires after an interest in Christ, to
^ obtain which they said they would cheerfully lay down

CAMBUSLANG. 237

their litres, and part with every thing that was dear to
them in the world

" I have at several times conversed with many of these
persons, and have received no small satisfaction from
such conversations. When speaking of prayer, they have
told me how much that duty had been neglected by them,
and in what a cold, lifeless manner it had been perform-
ed, from which therefore they neither did nor could reap
any satisfaction ; but now, said they, it was an exercise
in which they found much sweetness and comfort. Their
love to the Holy Scriptures all of them express in the
most lively and moving manner, frequently calling it a
precious and invaluable treasure, greatly surprised how
they could possibly slight it in time past, and declaring
they now saw many things in it highly useful and comfort-
able to them, which they never before imagined had been
there.

" They express a great love to and desire after the
public ordinances. When I asked some of them if they
had such affection as the Psalmist speaks of in the begin-
ning of the 122d Psalm, when it was said to him, ' Let
us go up to the house of the Lord,' they have told me,
that though it was quite otherwise with them before, yet
now they found a vast pleasure in attending the church
and public worship of God, and a great unwillingness to
withdraw from it when the service was over. They are
likewise exceedingly desirous of more private instruction
in their duty, and take all opportunities of waiting on
those that can be of use to them, and such of them as
are near at hand do frequently come to my house, and
receive my advice and assistance, and I never saw per-
sons more docile than they are. I must own, indeed,
that when I first conversed with them, I found some of
them pretty ignorant of the principles of religion ; but
this was what they seemed deeply grieved and afflicted
for, and much condemned their former sloth and negli-
gence, and since that time have been making use of the
proper means of knowledge, and I think I can say with
no contemptible success, considering the short time they
have had.

238 SCOTLAND.

" Some of them seem to discover devout breathings of
soul after God, and the blessed Redeemer, and resolutions
through grace to depend on him in the worst of circum-
stances, often making use of these words of Job, xiii. 15,
' Though he slay me yet will I trust in him.' I have
been much surprised to see how readily, and even judi-
ciously some of them who had been formerly ignorant
and unconverted, have spoken of some of the most im-
portant points of practical religion, and with what facility
they have adduced passages of Scripture very suitable to
what they were speaking about.

" There is another branch of Christian duty that I do
think they are likewise studying conformity to. And
that is love to mankind : I have often heard them wish-
ing, and desiring that all men might be brought to Christ
and the knowledge of the truth ; and particularly express-
ing a great regard for all that are the Lord's people. So
far as I have yet access to know them, they seem to be of
a meek and quiet spirit, and willing to forgive ; telling me
they desire to wish well and to pray even for the happi-
ness of those who had been injurious to them.

" More might be said on this subject, but I choose
rather to be sparing, till time make a fuller discovery of
them.

" The persons I have conversed with, were of different
characters, some of them had all along been pretty regu-
lar and sober in their lives, and duly enough attended the
ordinances of the gospel ; others of them were very care-
less this way, and addicted to many sins, but even those
who were more blameless in their lives, have declared
that their hearts till now were never touched with any
thing they heard from the word of God ; that they had
never lived under the influence of religion, and were
grossly unconcerned about their salvation.

" These now are some of the appearances I observe
among some of my people, who were awakened to a con-
cern about their souls at Cambuslang ; which do strongly
incline me to think that it is the work of God.

" John Hamilton.

" Glasgow, 26th April, 1742."

CAMBU&LANG. 239

Attestation by Mr M k Knight, Minister of Irvine.

« Rev. and dear Brother,

« As I had by information from letters conceived a
food opinion of the extraordinary and surprising work
at Cambuslang before I went thither upon an invitation
from you to preach there last Sabbath ; so my said opi-
nion has been very much confirmed by what I was eye
and ear-witness to during my abode with you, from Sat-
urday to Tuesday last ; being still more and more per-
suaded that it is the real work of the Spirit of God.

« While I joined with your congregation in public
worship, I observed among the vast number that nocked
to hear the gospel preached at Cambuslang, not only the
serious looks and the close attention of the multitudes
to what was spoken, but also the weeping eyes of many
that appeared to be in the greatest distress and trouble.

" Again, in the evenings after public worship was
ended, and when I had occasion to converse with several
of these afflicted persons, I found their wounds and an-
guish of soul, together with their tears, did proceed not
from a whimsical and enthusiastic imagination, but from
a deep conviction of the great evil and demerit of sin,
original and actual, particularly of their sin of unbelief,
and alighting precious Christ, and the gracious offers of
salvation by him ; and when I exhorted and directed them
to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, as St Paul did the
convinced and troubled gaoler (Acts, xvi. 31), they
answered 'Lord help me to believe, gladly would 1 believe,
but I cannot.' However, while under their soul exer-
cises for sin, and because of God's wrath, 1 heard them
expressing ardent desires after Christ, and an interest in
him, and salvation by him, and a great thirst after the
word, the knowledge of God and divine things, and after
a saving faith in a crucified Jesus, which gave me ground
to hope that our dear Redeemer Jesus would soon ac-
complish these longing desires in relieving them from
their distresses of both body and mind.

" Likewise I conversed with others Yrtio v?«t* wxA«t

240 SCOTLAND.

piercing and deep convictions for sin, and have felt the
sharp arrows of the Almighty sticking fast in their souls,
and to whom the Spirit of God had, upon their believing
in Jesus Christ, applied his precious blood to heal these
wounds, and herein had granted relief and comfort, hath
delivered their souls from death, their eyes from tears,
and their feet from falling; for which distinguishing
mercies they were exalting free grace, saying with the
apostle Paul, it is by grace we are what we are, and bless*
ed be the God and Father of the Lord Jesus Christ, whe
hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenrj
places in Christ.

" They, when I conversed with them, declared dis
tinctly the way and manner how their convictions began
and how the relief they got from soul-troubles came tc
them. They also discovered the gracious work of th<
spirit of God upon their souls, in their confession of sii
with shame, sorrow, and blushing ; in their professing ;
hatred of it, and loathing themselves on the accoun
thereof, crying out, Behold we are vile, we abhor our
selves and repent in dust and ashes ; in their love t
God and his ordinances, in renouncing their own rightc
ousness, and in relying wholly on Christ for righteousnes
and strength ; in their high esteem of and ardent love t
their Redeemer, in their charity and love to one another an
to all Christians, and especially to those who are the ret
disciples of the Lord Jesus, and bear the image of thei
heavenly Father ; in their tender sympathy with, and ai
fectionate concern for, those that fall under distress an
anguish of spirit for sin, and in their endeavours to reliev
them, by good advices and proper exhortations, and t
comfort the dejected and disquieted in mind with th
consolations wherewith they themselves had been con
forted. These are a few of the good fruits of the Spiri
of God I observed among several I conversed with f
Cambuslang.

" Therefore I cannot but bear testimony, that, in m
apprehension, the surprising work with you, dear brothe
for these several weeks past, is of God. And if the wor
be of God, then neither the devil nor all his agents sha

CAMBUBLAKG. 241

be able to overthrow it; yea, I hope through the divine
Hewing on the seed sown and to be sown, to hear more
cf this remarkable success with you. As I desire to
jam you in giving thanks to God for this remarkable
countenancing of your sacred ministrations to many in
your parish and neighbourhood, so I entreat you may
constantly remember me and my flock at the throne of
grace ; and join with us in earnest and repeated prayers
to God, that the like observable outpourings of the Holy
Spirit may visit my congregation and the neighbouring
parishes to revive his work in this west country ; and
may it spread not only through all the churches in Bri-
ton and Ireland, but throughout all the churches in the
world for building Zion ; yea, that the heathen may be
given to Christ for his inheritance, and the uttermost
parts of the earth for his possession.

" That a rich and powerful blessing from heaven may
crown your ministerial labours with more and more suc-
cess, is, and shall be the earnest prayer of

" Your affectionate brother

" And servant in the Lord,
" William M'Knight.

" Irvin*, 6th May, 1742."

It might be tedious to insert all the attestations given
by ministers who went to witness the great sight at
Ctfmbuslang. A few examples, however, extracted from
the attestations of the effect of converting power upon
individuals of various characters and conditions will be
instructive. Mr Connell, minister of Kilbryde, relates
his interview with a young woman, who gave him a dis-
tinct account of her distress and outgate (deliverance).
She said, " ' I hate lived about twenty years in the world,
and all that time the devil had possession of my heart,
and I am sure he is a bad guest ; but blessed be God, I
hope he is now in a great measure dispossessed, and shall
never, through the strength of Christ, recover that power
over me that formerly he had.' Mean time, I observe
to you, this person had always been of a blameless life,

Q

242 SCOTLAND.

and not chargeable with any scandal ; yet she with tear*
regretted her careless way of going about secret duty,
reading the Scriptures and hearing sermons, or neglecting
these altogether ; but with much humility and serious-
ness, in the strength of divine grace, expressed her reso-
lution that she would do so no more.

" Upon the whole, in most of all I have seen and con-
versed with, I observed, and have daily occasion to ob-
serve, the effects of godly sorrow mentioned by the
apostle, 2 Cor. vii. 1 1."

Mr M'Laurin of Glasgow remarks :— " From the best
observation I could make on their dispositions and beha-
viour, compared with the observations made by others,
they seem in a particular manner to excel in meekness,
humility, self-denial, and charity ; in the wisdom from
above, described by James, iii. 17, as * first pure, then
peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy
and good fruits,' &c., in aversion to things that tend
rather to strife than edification, and in ardent desire of
the conversion and salvation of others.

" An unknown person very lately wrote a letter to
Mr M'Culloch, dated 29th April, in which was enclosed

another letter with a twenty shilling note to Mr J. J ,

merchant in this city, on account of wrong done to his
father of two or three shillings value, many years ago ;
and that unknown person desires, that in the printed
account that is expected of the work at Cambuslang,
there may be some instructions about restitution."

There is not in all the attestations one more instruc-
tive than that of Mr David Connell, preacher, as it ex-
hibits the manner in which the conversions of some
affect the bystanders, giving them the first conviction of
their dangerous position ; and also, how the present ope-
rations of the Holy Spirit spread a prayerful solemnity
even over the impenitent. This effect is continually
remarked during revivals in America, and so has it re-
cently been in more than one favoured spot in Scotland.
Mr Connell says, " I have conversed with a good many
in this parish (Kilbryde) that have been affected there

CAMBUSLANG. 243

(at Cambuslang). Some have told me, that by what thej
beard, they had great desire raised in their minds to be
burdened with sin, that so they might come to Chirst ;
and then have got so great a sense of sin and guilt as to
be more than they could well bear. Others that have
come to me in great distress, when I asked them how
they came to be in that condition, answered, that while
they were hearing some private exhortation of the minis-
ter, a great many of their sins were brought to their
remembrance. They thought they had been doing no-
thing but sinning all their days, that they were empty
of all good, and that they were undone without Christ.
Some have told me that they met with great opposition
in going to attend upon the ordinances, but they became
resolute and went ; and what parts of Scripture fastened
any sense of sin upon their minds ; how this was more
and more increased; and what texts kept them from
despair amidst the greatest terror one could readily be
under.

" Others told me that all things in the world were
now become tasteless to them, seeing the danger their
souls were in. 1 have seen some sitting alone all
in tears, and when I asked them what was the matter,
they said they were afraid lest their convictions should
go off without any good effect, and expressed a strong
desire after Christ. Others that seemed to be under
great concern, on being asked what they wanted, said,
* Conviction of sin, and faith in Christ. 1 1 have been
greatly surprised to hear such a distinct account of the
provoking nature of sin, and the terms of our acceptance
with God, given by those that are reputed the most
ignorant, and who, I believe, knew scarce any thing at
all of religious matters till this work began. I cannot
say, that among all 1 have conversed with, I have found
one in despair, but have heard them expressing a great
sense of their inability to believe. I have heard them
expressing the highest esteem of the mercy of God and
the mediation of Christ. ■ * * * I have heard them
expressing a sense of the evil of sin, and their own vile-

I

244 SCOTLAND.

•

ness by it ; earnest desires after perfection in 1
and fears lest they should fall back into their for
ful state ; mentioning the promises that support
under these fears. * * * Their earnest dei
diligent endeavours after more knowledge; 1
sense and sweet relish of divine truth ; their i
to apply what they hear to themselves, even thoi
that discover more of the corruption of their he
errors of their lives ; the pouring out of their
God in prayer," &c. In short, every mark of a
work of grace, from its earliest to its closing sta
mentioned by Mr Connell as being evidenced in
verts at Kilbryde, who had been awakened first I
revival at Cambuslang.

C *45 ]

CHAPTER XVIII.

CAMBUSLANG.

Mb M'Culloch's account of the second commemora-
tion of the Redeemer's death we shall give nearly entire,
as an example of the diligence, the liveliness, the delight
in ordinances which the Holy Spirit's presence gives.
Would that Scotland would place this in contrast with the
formal half-dead ordinances with which she has too fre-
quently and too long been satisfied, and never rest till the
Lord hears her cry, and returns to his church, and dwells
in the midst of it I

" Rbv. and dear Brother,
" You know that we had the Lord's Supper dispensed
here on the 1 lth of July. It was such a sweet and
agreeable time to many, that a motion was made by Mr
Webster, and immediately seconded by Mr Whitfield,
that we should have another such occasion again in this
place very soon. The motion was very agreeable to me,
but I thought it needful to deliberate before coming to a
resolution. The thing proposed was indeed extraordi-
nary,* but so had the work m this place been for several
months past. Care was therefore taken to acquaint the
several meetings for prayer with the motion, who relished
it well, and prayed for direction to those concerned to de-
termine in the matter. The session met next Lord's day,

* It may be necessary to explain, that, after the Reformation, it
had been the custom to observe this ordinance seldom, at first, perhaps
from the difficulties attending it in troublous times, and also from
die willingness of devout persons to travel many miles for the purpose
of enjoying the privilege repeatedly in other parishes.

246 SCOTLAND.

and taking into consideration the divine command to
celebrate this ordinance often, joined with the extraordi-
nary work that had been here for some time, and under-
standing that many who had met with much benefit to
their souls at the last solemnity, had expressed their
earnest desire of seeing another in this place shortly, and
hearing of many who intended to have joined at the last
occasion, but were kept back by inward discouragement
or outward obstruction, it was therefore resolved (God
willing) that the sacrament of the Lord's Supper should
be again dispensed in this parish on the third Sabbath of
August. And there was first one day, then another,
appointed for a general meeting of the societies for prayer
at the manse, who met along with some other Christians
from the neighbourhood. When the manse could not
conveniently hold them, they went to the church, and at
one of these meetings, when light tailed them in the
church, a number of them, by their own motion, came again
to the manse, and continued at prayer and praise till
about one in the morning. The design of these meetings
was to ask mercy of the God of heaven on ourselves ; to
pray for the Seceders and others who unhappily oppose
this work of God here and in some other parts where it
takes place. That God would forgive their guilt in this,
open their eyes, remove their prejudices, and convince
them that it is indeed his work ; and that the Lord would
continue and increase the blessed work of conviction and
conversion here, and in other places where it is begun,
and extend it to all corners of the land ; that he would
eminently countenance the dispensing of the Holy Supper
here the second time, and make the glory of the latter
solemnity exceed that of the former. Much of the Lord's
gracious presence was enjoyed at these meetings for
prayer, returns of mercy were vouchsafed in part, and are
still further expected and hoped for.

" The second occasion did indeed much excel the for-
mer, not only in the number of ministers and people,
but, which is the main thing, in a much greater measure
of the power and special presence of God in the sensi-

CAMBUSLANG. 247

ble experience of multitudes that attended. Webster,
M'Laurin, Gillies, Robe, M* Knight, Bonnar, Whitfield,
and several others were among the clergy who partook of
and assisted at this solemnity. The venerable Bonnar,
whose frailty required him to employ three days in tra-
velling eighteen miles from his parish of Torphichen to
Cambuslang, when he was helped to ascend the tent,
preached three times with great life, and journeyed to his
aome with much satisfaction and joy. Mr Whitfield's
termons on Saturday, Sabbath, and Monday were attend -
id with much power, particularly on Sabbath night about
aft, and that on Monday, several crying out ; and a very
great but decent weeping and mourning was observable
throughout the auditory. On Sabbath evening, while he
was serving some tables, he appeared to be so filled with
the love of God, as to be in a kind of transport, and
communicated with much of that blessed frame. Time
irould fail me to speak of the evidences of the power of
God coming along with the rest of the assistants. The
number of people that were there on Saturday and Mon-
day was very considerable ; but the number present at the
three tents on the Lord's day was so great, that, so far
as I can hear, none saw the like since the times of the
Reformation. The lowest estimate I hear, with which
Mr Whitfield agrees, and he has been much used to
great multitudes, makes them to have been upwards of
thirty thousand. The number of communicants appears
to have been about three thousand. Some worthy of
credit, and that had opportunities to know, give it as
their opinion, that such a blessed frame fell upon the
people, that, had they possessed means to obtain tokens,
there would haye been a thousand more."

This concourse of people was assembled from many
and remote places ; besides Glasgow, Edinburgh, and
Kilmarnock, even England and Ireland having furnished
a. portion, it is interesting to see a hundred reckoned
from Irvine, and a hundred from Stewarton, the scenes
of similar divine influences in former days.

" One young man, who had a view to the ministry,

248 SCOTLAND.

and had been for some time under great temptation tc
believe that God's presence was no more to be enjoyed
either in the Church or among the Seceders, communi-
cated here, and returned with great joy, full of the low
of God. * * * The tables were all served in th<
open air, beside the tent, below the brae. The day ww
temperate, no wind or rain in the least to disturb. Se-
veral persons of rank and distinction who were elders
most cheerfully assisted our elders in distributing thi
elements.

" But what was most remarkable, was the spiritus
glory of this solemnity ; I mean the gracious and sensiM
presence of God. Not a few were awakened to a sen*
of sin, and their lost and perishing condition without i
Saviour. Others had their bands loosed, and wen
brought into the marvellous liberty of the sons of* God
Many of God's dear children have declared that it was i
happy time to their souls, wherein they were abundantly
satisfied with the goodness of God in his ordinances, am
filled with all joy and peace in believing. I have seen i
letter from Edinburgh, the writer of which says, ' tha
having talked with many Christians in that city, who hat
been here at this sacrament, they all owned that Go(
had dealt bountifully with their souls.' Some who at
tended, declared that they would not for a world hav<
been absent from this solemnity. Others cried, ' Nov
let thy servants depart in peace, since our eyes have seei
thy salvation here.' Others wishing, if it were the wil
of God, to die where they were, attending God in hii
ordinances, without ever returning again to the world o
their friends, that they might be with Christ in heaven
as that which is incomparably best of all.

" I thought it my duty to record the memory of God'i
great goodness to many souls on that occasion. * * *
May our exalted Redeemer still go on from conquering
to conquer, till the whole earth be filled with his glory
Amen. So let it be.

" In him, I am yours, &c.

" William M'Culloch "

CAMBU0LAHG. 249

We add here a brief extraet from Whitfield's Journal,
wkere, in conformity with the openness of his character,
s* states what he saw and heard, without the caution and
ttjagiviags which rendered so many attestations necessary
before some could dare to believe that God had visited
his church of a truth. His frank credulity forms a curious
csntrast to the circumspection of his associates. He
doubted not that the Spirit of power was there, and did
not atop the current of his thankful joy by questions if
there were some hypocrites and some enthusiasts mingled
Maongst the servants of the Lord.

" I preached at two to a vast body of people, at six in
the evening, and again at nine. Such a commotion surely
never was heard of, especially at eleven at night. For
about an hour-and-half there was such weeping, so many
jailing into deep distress, and expressing it in various
ways, as is inexpressible. The people seem to be slain
by scores. They are carried off, and come into the house
like soldiers wounded and carried off a field of battle.
Their cries and agonies are exceedingly affecting. Mr
M. preached after I had ended, till past one in the morn-
iag, and then could scarce persuade them to depart. All
night in the fields might be heard the voice of prayer and
praise. Some young ladies were found by a gentlewoman
praising God at break of day : she went and joined with
them/'

At the second occasion he returned there to assist
as before, and says, in the month of August, " Scarce
ever was such a sight seen in Scotland. There were un-
doubtedly upwards of twenty thousand persons. Two
tents were set up, and the Holy Sacrament was adminis-
tered in the fields. When I began to serve a table, the
power of God was felt by numbers, but the people crowded
so upon me that I was obliged to desist, and go to preach
at one of the tents, whilst the ministers served the rest
of the tables. God was with them and with his people.
There was preaching all day by one or another ; and in
the evening when the Sacrament was over, at the request
of the ministers, I preached to the whole congregation.
I preached about an hour-and-half. Suxdy \\ y*«& ^Xsx&fc

250 SCOTLAND.

much to be remembered. On Monday morning I preached
again to near as many ; but such an universal stir I never
saw before. The motion fled as swift as lightning from
one end of the auditory to another. You might have
seen thousands bathed in tears : some at the same time
wringing their hands ; others almost swooning,— and
others crying out and mourning over a pierced Sa-
viour."

It does not appear that this lively work was prolonged
beyond 1742, but during its existence, it was computed
that, by the instrumentality of the regular pastor, aided
by many pious ministers, about four hundred individuals
were brought to the knowledge of the truth as it is in
Jesus. It were tedious to recite the many testimonies
to the genuineness of this work of grace, which Mr Robe,
in his zeal and industry, has collected in his narrative.
It suffices to give a testimonial from Gillies, the well-
known author of the Collections, eleven years later. His
letter is directed to the hearers in the College Kirk of
Glasgow, dated Feb. 16, 1751.

" Many of you, from what you saw of that concern (at
Cambuslang), and some of you, from what you felt, were
convinced that it was the work of the Spirit of God ; and
blessed be his name I am now personally acquainted with
several of you who were subjects of it, and who continue,
to the glory of free grace, to bring forth the fruits of a
sober, righteous, and godly conversation.

I know there are some melancholy instances of back-
sliding ; our Lord has plainly taught us to expect such
things. But that the revival which was at Cambuslang,
and other places in the country, in 1742, has come to
nothing, has not been followed with any good fruit in
people's lives (as I understand some in Holland,* who
are not as yet favourable to the work there, are in danger
to imagine), you and I both know this to be otherwise.
And I think it my duty to declare so much to his glory,
who I am persuaded was the author of that work."

* A revival began at Nieuwkerk, in Holland, in 1 749, and spread
^ into the duchy of Guelderland, &c, extaudi&£to 1751,

CAMBUSLANG. 251

There is also a most satisfactory attestation from Mr
M'Culloch himself, which is too long for insertion. We
give an extract from the passage in which he describes
the highway-side hearers.

" There were some that were gross counterfeits, who,
a little after the awakening broke out here in 42,
crowded in among the really distressed, and observing
and imitating their manner, pretended to be also in spiri-
tual distress, when there was no such thing. But these
were detected to be mere pretenders, either by their own
confession soon after, or were plainly enough discerned
to be so by others. The number of these counterfeits,
for what I know, was never any way considerable, and
in a short time they disappeared. There were also num-
bers of idle boys in Glasgow, apprentices and others, who
pretending, or seeming to be under some concern about
their souls, came often out to Cambuslang, as they pre-
tended, to hear and join in prayer in the fields ; but
these appearances with them generally came to nothing,
and they brought much reproach on the work here, by so
often leaving their masters' work, and strolling idly
through the fields.

" There were those who came here in 42 with a
design to find matter of diversion or cavil, and to mock
such as were in spiritual distress. The bands of such
mockers were, no doubt, made stronger by their so
coming, and so behaving when they came ; and yet some
of these were made happy monuments of victorious grace,
and of sovereign preventing mercy themselves, a remark-
able instance of which I had lately sent me in a letter
from an aged and experienced Christian of great integ-
rity, whom I can fully credit, especially in testifying
what he cannot but certainly know. A part of this
letter I subjoin, because it serves to confute what some
opposes have asserted, that there are no instances of any
grossly vicious sinners reformed or converted at Cambus-
lang in 42. Glory to God, a number of other instances
of this sort can be given. « I have to say, for my own
part (says the letter), that I am able to go to death with
it, that the Spirit of God was so nowerf\x\Vj «X ^a&r~

252 SCOTLAND.

Cambuslang, that not only sinners who knew nothing oi
God before, were reached both by conviction and conver-
sion, but even saints themselves were made to attain
to that which they had been strangers to in religion. 1
am able, if time would allow, to give a most satisfying
account of not a few, both men and women, who I hope
will bless God to all eternity for that happy time. Par-
ticularly there were, among others, two young men,
living not far from me, who came over to you in 42, ob
purpose to mock the work ; and as they had formerly
been horrid cursers and swearers, the one swore to the
other, he would go see the falling at Cambuslang, ask-
ing his comrade if he would go with him. The othet
sware that he would go too, but that they should not
make him f ally for that he would run for it. And upon
their going there together, they were both caught the
same day ; and for a quarter of a year afterwards thtj
continued under very deep convictions, and have evei
since kept fellowship-meetings weekly ; and I have bees
sometimes with them, and heard them both pray and con-
verse in Christian experience, to my great satisfaction.'
" As to the contents of this letter, I only add, 1* That
the writer of it, a little after, sent me a very satisfying
account of a considerable number of the subjects of the
work, known to him, and living near him, as to theil
blameless walk from that time to this. 2. And as to
these two youths, it is well known here, that instead oi
being able to run away, if either found himself in hazard
of being affected, as they proposed, they fell both undei
awakenings together, or nearly so, and were glad to get
into a stable hard by, and to get to their prayers there,
on their knees, among the horses ; and 3. As to what
these called the falling at Cambuslang, it was a way oi
speaking among mockers at that time, occasioned by theil
seeing some fall down in time of sermon." *

* Robe's Narrative, p. 802.

[ 258 ]

CHAPTER XIX.

REFLECTIONS.

A hevival of religion does not partake of the mira-
culous. It is a multiplication of individual instances
of conversion occurring nearly at one time. Sir Henry
Moncreiff has made some philosophical and most dis-
ptssionate remarks on the subject of the revival at Cam-
Duslang. He says " a strong view of his own character,
and of the irreparable consequences of an irreligious life,
clearly stated and deeply impressed on the conscience,
may be conceived in very different circumstances to pro-
duce the same effects on any individual who attracts no
public notice, and of whom nothing more is known, than
that from that time he exhibits in private life a different
character from that which before belonged to him. The
mental or bodily agitations occasioned by his first alarms,
from the apprehended effects of his unprincipled conduct,
may not have been essentially different from those which
occurred at Cambuslang, though his circumstances have
not subjected him to the enquiries or observations of others.
He may feel as much agitation as the converts of that
time, though the situation in which he has received his
convictions, has confined the cause of them to his own
bosom, or to the confidence of his intimate associates.
It is equally certain that the same feelings may exist, and
may even be experienced in the same degree, when they
are accompanied by no such agitation of body, and by
nothing but their moral effect to render them visible to
the eye of the world."*

In the notes to this volume, we find the author sug-
gesting a perplexing question which occurs to many minds,

# Moacrei£T» Life of Er»klae, p. W6.

254 REFLECTIONS.

on the subject of one solitary revival. " Supposing'
the facts related to have been correct, how do we account
for the narrow sphere within which the consequences of
all these extraordinary events were limited? We see
many converts in the course of a few months. Bnt very
soon we hear of nothing more of the same kind, though
the same individuals continue to preach occasionally in
the same country for many years. We naturally ask,
supposing all that was extraordinary in the events related
to have been directed by Providence, why was the same
influence no longer continued by the same instruments,
or why did it not operate afterwards by means of others
in the same manner ? For what visible ends were such
remarkable events directed, of which we see no more than
the immediate effects on a few individuals? However
permanent their consequences with regard to them, they
were followed by none of the great and signal events
which so many anticipated, or by any change in the state of
the Christian church, which we can possibly connect with
them."

" All that can be said on this subject amounts to
nothing more than what resolves itself into the ignorance
of man with regard to the laws of Providence. It is clear
that no remarkable change on the state of the world was
designed.* But supposing the conversions at Cam-
buslang to have been real (of which we can say nothing
more than has been related), the effects produced in the
progress of practical religion might go much farther than
we have the means of ascertaining. The converts of that
time who persevered to the end, would leave the impres-
sion of their characters on the society in which they lived,
on the families whom they left behind them, and on all
those who had the means of observing the effects of
genuine religion which they exemplified; while the marked
and continued testimony given by them in private life to

* Dr Erskine had published a pamphlet entitled " The Signs of the
Times considered ; or the high probability of the present appearances
in New England and the West of Scotland are a prelude to the glorious
things promised to the church in the latter ages." Edinburgh, 1742.
His biographer's remarks farm a tepty to &n& ^wco^Vtafc.

. REFLECTIONS. 255

the efficacy of genuine religion, might go much farther.
It might operate widely during their own lives, it may be
operating still in many forms which our observation can
never reach. " All these conclusions are conjectural. But
there is nothing more definite on the subject for which there
can be any authority." *

It is not for the unlearned and simple to confute the
learned and the wise, yet one mind may not, by years of
reflection, arrive at a conclusion which arises almost spon-
taneously in another. Independently of the " some
hundreds" whom even their enemies admit to have been
converted at Cambuslang, and independently of the pre-
dons leaven of Christian faith which has descended from
these converts and expands its holy influence over the
country to this day, we think we can see another weighty
reason why the Holy Spirit, under whose dispensation we
dwell, should appear in his sovereignty, and arouse us
to a conviction of his power by occasional, partial, and
brief, but lively outpourings in his church.

God, in his providential government, has not left him-
self without a witness, in that the ordinances of the sun and
moon remain. There is no tongue nor speech where their
voice is not heard. Even the benighted heathen gathers
some knowledge of a creating power, by the recurrence of
night and day, summer and winter, seed-time and harvest.
Then again, God, in his government of grace, by means of
his dispensation of prophecy, kept alive in the Church of
Israel the expectation and faith of what he designed to
accomplish. At some periods, two or three prophets
would at once be engaged in stirring up the people, and
preaching the coming of the Lord; at other times,
" the word of God would become precious, because there
was no open vision ;" and after perhaps a long period of
silence, as if the Lord had forgotten his purposes, would
arise a solemn voice by the waters of Chebar, or a cry in the
wilderness, which aroused the people into awaiting attitude,
and taught them to look for the consolation of Israel.
Our dispensation is that of the Holy Spirit. We are

* MoncreifFs Life of Erekine, note, p. bQO.

256 REFLECTIONS.

privileged to expect His blessed influences, not only indf
vidually, but collectively — in the church as well as thi
closet — in hearing 1 as well as in reading the Word. Om
promises embrace not only the lands already called Chris-
tian, but the dark places of the earth, which are fuH ol
the habitations of cruelty. Our hopes are directed, net
only to the heathen, who have never heard the nam* oi
Messiah, but to that unhappy and wonderful people whc
crucified and slew him. The waters which at first exrij
issued out from under the threshold of the house
ward presently reached to the ankles of the prophet,
they reached the knees, then they arose to the loins, awl
at last they became waters to swim in, a river that could
not be passed over. " The waters go down into tbe
desert, and every thing shall live whither the riven
cometh."*

In his Word, on which he hath caused us to hope, out
God has given rise to the most expanded expectation.
We cannot desire or pray for greater things than are in
conformity with the purposes of him who teaches us to
ask for the coming of his kingdom, and promises that
" the whole earth shall be filled with his glory. " He
shall have dominion from sea to sea, and from the rivei
unto the ends of the earth." — Ps. lxxii. 8.

Is it, then, improbable that he should, at his own
times, visit the world with somewhat of an anticipation
of those promised glories ? Would it be in conformity
with his providential dealings, and with his dealings witfc
the Church of Israel during the dispensation of pro-
phecy, that he should leave himself, in the Christian
Church, and under the dispensation of the Spirit, withoul
a witness which shall arrest the observation of the mosl
regardless.

The kingdom of God cometh not with observation;
and entereth many souls, but the world heeds it not
The small still voice testifies in many spirits, but thi
world hearkens not. Then comes the Spirit as a rushing
mighty wind, and shakes the house, so that, whether al

* ILzttk* xxxwu

REFLECTIONS. 257

who are within hearing believe or not, certainly they are
ail within reach of conviction, and it remains with them
whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear.

Besides the solemn testimony of the reality of con-
ferring power, which is thus laid before the unbelieving,
is not the Church, by this means, refreshed and strength-
ened ? The children of Zion learn to lift up their heads,
for the time of their redemption draweth nigh. They
seem, so to speak, to be admitted into the secret that is
with those who fear the Lord. They comprehend, that
though the time seems long, " the Lord will hasten it in
big time." To him there is no restraint, to save by many
or by few, and they see how He, who wrought on the
multitude at the day of Pentecost, can work still, so that
thousands shall be born in a day ; and they comprehend,
when the fulness of time shall arrive, how speedily He
will possess himself of all hearts, so that the uttermost
ends of the earth shall be the Lord's. In times of revival,
not only do new souls flow into the Church, but its for-
mer members are urged to more earnest prayer, and fresh
efforts after sanctification. Hearing from afar the good
tidings, has refreshed very many. The translation of the
Narrative of Cambuslang into the Dutch language, by
one of our Scottish pastors who was settled there, was the
remote cause of a revival of religion in Holland. The
tidings from New England Christians encouraged the bre-
thren here, while the good news which went forth from us,
revived and cheered them. Besides the many spots in
Great Britain which have been thus favoured, Holland,
Germany, Prussia, France, Switzerland, nay, even Italy
tself, have had their times of visitation, and each awak-
ening has had some useful effect on other Christian
xmntries.

The revivals in the United States, which have of late
pears been more frequent and copious than those experi-
enced by any other region of the earth, have not alone
rescued thousands under their immediate influence from
the way of destruction, and placed them in the way of
life ; but they have fixed the attention of the multitude,
who are crowding from the haunts of cvri&i&&. Vvl^ \k>

k

258 REFLECTIONS.

form settlements in impenetrated forests. They have
been the occasion of many carrying with them to the
wilderness impressions never to be forgotten. They hare
awakened the zeal of those who dwell within the region
of churches to pursue the emigrants ; forsaking the com-
forts of refined society, to dwell among them, that they
may convey to them like precious faith. And besides
all the powerful effects produced by these revivals in
their own country, which it would not suit our purpose
here to enumerate, their effect on the churches of Europe
has not been unimportant, and we may well expect that
it will be more important still, flow many prayers
have ascended from England alone, how many works
have been reprinted and read with avidity, how many
have been written, in consequence of what we have heard
of the state of things in America ! If the religions
world, or any part of it, is on its watch-tower, looking
earnestly for the dawning of the day of glory, it is partly
in consequence of having good tidings from afar, and of
longing to partake of the abundant rain with which the
Lord has promised to confirm his inheritance when it is
weary. We cannot, therefore, accede to the question of
the eminent divine — " For what visible ends were such
remarkable events directed, of which we see no more than
the immediate effects on a few individuals?" Nor can
we say with him, that " it is clear no remarkable change
on the state of the world was designed." Every revival
is as the voice of one crying in the wilderness, to prepare
our hearts, for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.
And if no other results had followed but the establish-
ment of that concert of prayer, which took its rise in the
west at that time, and is observed by many still, though
nearly a century has rolled away, that one event is of an
influence in the spiritual affairs of many, which will only
be computed in the eternal world.

The most weighty objection urged against revivals is
whether such a system of things is right in itself. It is
alleged that the very term revival implies a periodical
relapse, which must be highly injurious and hardening to
the heart* . This supposes vAiaX S» xvsA. \J&a fact — that the

REFLECTIONS. 259

persons called in a new revival are backsliders from the
profession they made at some previous time. At such
an interesting period, without doubt the spirits of Chris-
tians are much stirred in them ; they experience more
zeal and more prayerfulness, — and if so be that there
exist backsliders amongst them, that is a promising time in
which their backslidings may be healed ; but, in general,
a revival is the flowing of new souls into the church —
the awakening of those who have bean dead in trespasses
and sins. Souls then make a shoot in the growth of
holiness, and become more quickly confirmed and esta-
blished ; so that, instead of lingering under doubtful con-
victions, and growing up tardily to a settled faith and
love, they, under this more lively work of grace, are made
decidedly, and in haste, living members of the body of
Christ. What an advantage is it to the faithful pastor
to have thus obtained a band of fellow-workers, who pro-
mote his views, and aid him with their prayers ! Even
the strenuous advocates of the more deliberate operations
of the Holy Spirit, to which we are accustomed, where
the perpetual dew of the Divine blessing fructifies and
matures the seed of the word by slow degrees, and some-
times at the expense of years, must admit, that in the
more rapid and lively operations of a revival, there are
abundant advantages, if the fruits be equally mature.

Nor let it be thought that the intervals between revi-
vals are all deadness and inaction. The work of con-
version is still proceeding throughout the church, and
every where individuals are silently added to those who
believe. Mean while, the faithful pastor is actively en-
gaged in sowing the seed, and his church are strengthen-
ing his hands by their prayers and example ; and as the
husbandman waiteth for the early and latter rain, so does
he till it shall come in its season, and cause the seed to
grow.

Another objection to the doctrine of revivals is, that
though this mode of the Spirit's operations may be in con-
formity with the circumstances of a newly-settled coun-
try, where nearly all the ground is lying fallow, or to a
republican government, or a voluntary ctaacfti, \tae» tn»

260 REFLECTIONS.

particular form of religion happens to be supported by the
state, yet it is altogether inconsistent with the constitu-
tion of an established church. This difficulty we con-
ceive to arise in part from the imperfect notions derived
from descriptions of revivals written sometimes by ene-
mies, or at best by men who possess little of the lively
revival spirit . The technicalities adopted in some churches
in the United States — such as " anxious seats," " pro-
tracted meetings," &c. &c. — sound rather absurd in nar-
ration ; and yet an eyewitness might see circumstances
which may render such things both natural and useful.
This has been experienced at home, and we are forced to
smile at the futility of human devices in observing the
progress of matters in Robe's narrative. Considering in
his own mind what was done at Cambuslang, and hearing
the criticisms of the world on the week-day services, the
many hours spent in church, &c, Mr Robe, while he
prayed for a time of refreshing from the Lord on his own
people at Kilsythe, made various secret resolutions as to
how he would arrange matters to avoid censure, should
his prayers be answered. But when the time came, the
exigencies of the souls crying out, " What shall we do?"
overset all his preconceived plans ; and though he used
not the names of " anxious seats" and " protracted
meetings," he adopted the things; for when the good
man had closed his services, and saw many of his people
sit gazing upon him as if they were still hungering for
more, he was constrained to begin anew. And when the
agitation among the people became overpowering, he was
forced to descend amongst them, and employ his elders
to converse with those whom he could not reach. Nor
was this all ; for when, at late hours, he retired to his
house, he was accompanied or followed thither by those
who were in tears, or in terror too deep for tears. In
these circumstances, his strength was wasted, and he na-
turally asked of his friends to come over and help him,
both that they might teach the people, and see the won-
derful thing that God wrought ; and thus, for many
months, he was doing daily what in his inexperience he
^fiad resolved not to do.

REFLECTIONS. 261

Another objection commonly brought against the Trans-
atlantic method of conducting revivals is, that some con-
gregations are neglected and left, while their pastors are
called to assist the agitated souls in their vicinity. If
this were fact, in a case of extreme necessity, we should
say it b#l better be so. Nor would such neglect be with-
out precedent in England, where it not unfrequently hap-
pens that one curate has charge of the duties in three
parishes, and accomplishes one short service in each, by
means of galloping from church to church, without re-
siding in any of them. And in Scotland, too, it is by
no means uncommon, both in the Establishment and
amongst the Dissenters, to leave a place of worship vacant
a whole Sabbath, while the minister is assisting a friend
in the dispensation of the Lord's supper. These are less
excusable times of leaving a flock unfed, than when the
extreme distress of a neighbouring flock calls for the aid
of other pastors. The shepherd in the parable left ninety-
nine in the wilderness, while he went after one tbat was
in jeopardy. In the period when cholera was making its
ravages in one town, no one thought of censuring the
medical men of another, who left their regular station to
go to their aid. This, however, is meeting an objection
as if it were valid, which is not so. For, if an experienced
man is called to aid a flock under lively convictions, it is
to be supposed, that he not only appoints a substitute
for the period of his absence, but that he returns to his
post so quickened by what he has witnessed, and relates
so many affecting proofs of the Spirit's way in the church,
that his own people are much refreshed by the circum-
stance. This was decidedly the case at Cambuslang and
Kilsythe, for many were the parishes that tasted of the
good gift after their pastors had been assisting in the
congregations already under the visitation. Some writer
on this subject, in his unthinking inexperience, has accused
the American Churches of having a 6et of men, whom
he names " revival-makers," who, from their peculiar gift
at stirring the passions, go from place to place making an
excitement, which for the time assumes the appearance of
a genuine work of the Spirit, but sutaitafe wiUew^\\&

262 REFLECTIONS.

subjects just as it found them, when the exciting cause
is removed. This seems too absurd to reason upon, and
imputes to Christians conduct like that of the poor bar-
barians in South Africa, who in time of drought send for
the rain-makers, and join them in all manner of noisy
invocations of the clouds. But it would seem we nave had
revival-makers in England also — Whitfield, Wesley, Hill,
Fletcher, were revival-makers; and not only they, but some
of the more correct and orderly members of the Established
Church. — Bernard Gilpin was not only an itinerant in va-
rious counties around his vicarage of Houghton-le-spring,
but an awakener of sinners, so that robl)ers and thieves
made restitution, and men of blows and blood left their fends
to follow him. Romain comes under the same descrip-
tion, in his movements from St Dunstan's to St Ann's,
whereas he was the instrument of arousing hundreds. Had
he entered more tenderly into the cases of distressed souls
in private, instead of referring all private applicants to his
public instructions alone for help, he would in all human
probability have been still more successful, and might have
arrayed a phalanx of dearly united and praying people
around him, who would have materially promoted his
work and strengthened his hands. Venn and Scott were
revival -makers. Alphonsus Gunn was a revival-maker,
for which trespass he was driven from the curacy of Farn-
ham, where the people had been used to live in pleasure,
and were dead in spirit. Yet those who were brought to
true spiritual life under his ministry, thought it not much
to walk nine miles to hear him every Sabbath when he
was removed to Odiam in Hampshire. From this place
also he was driven for the same cause. This holy and
faithful man was refused admission by the rectors to two
lectureships in London, after having been duly elected by
the people, lest he should make a revival; and he never
found rest for the sole of his foot till he came to be curate
to John Newton, at St Mary Woolnoth, where many of
the people were revived already, and the rest were longing
to partake of the blessing. Charles Bridges, the well-
known commentator on the 119th Psalm, has won many
■Pouis in every parish he nua occmpiad, \W&^Vx tkey might

REFLECTIONS. 263

have been dead before. Basil Woodd, who was for many
years actively engaged in preaching the*gospel in London,
kept account of those who came to him in distress of soul
from Bentinck Chapel alone, till they amounted to three
hundred, and then his biographer mentions that he left
numbering them, not having leisure for the interesting
numeration. In short, we must plead guilty to the dis-
orderliness of having revival-makers in the bosom of our
established churches. For where the truth is preached
in the spirit of prayer, there has the divine teacher often
owned his work, and acted on souls in the revival form.
In thus parrying some of the objections which the
fears of many upright and sedate Christians have led
them to entertain, we would be reluctant to be under-
stood as advocating mere excitement, or the adoption of
superfluous and unwonted arrangements for novelty's sake.
Even in this little volume will be found various examples
of nervous irritation being mistaken for mental convic-
tion. Deplorable cases have occurred in various revivals,
of persons under this mistake, fancying themselves real
converts, because they could look back on a date at which
they wept or trembled, and thus they have settled down
in a state of insensibility in which they have died. Dr
Sprague, in his very judicious and dispassionate work on
the subject, not only admits, but points out most of the
dangers which suggest the great difficulties to our care-
ful watchmen in this country. They are not unperceived
or undreaded by those who long for revivals here. All that
we would plead for is, that good men will not condemn a
name merely because it is new, or stamp a work as enthu-
siasm or hypocrisy, merely because it is not in the form to
which they have been accustomed. We have sat so long
under the calm possession of Christian privileges in this
country, that we are apt to lose sight of the method by
which the gospel first gained access to Britain, of the many
lands yet unpossessed even of the name of Christ, and of
the immensely accelerated progress of the Spirit's work,
which must take place before we can enter on the pro-
mised course of millennial ages. We indulge a mistrust
of methods diverse from our past ex^etY£\M&, Vst^\ScdS>

264 REFLECTIONS.

how little we know of the endless variety of appliances
in the divine treasury, all in consistency with the pur*
poses of salvation, and in conformity with the dispensa-
tion under which we live, which may remain to be re-
vealed to us, and put into operation upon or arouud us.
It is discouraging, nay, even alarming, to hear men of
genuine piety, who know what the conversion of a soul
means, and who know something of its immense value,
say that a system of revival is inconsistent with the con-
stitution of their Church. Is it consistent then with the
constitution of their Church that few should be convert-
ed — that those few should tarry long in the unprofitable
debateable ground between the world and the cross — and
that their pastors should be content with this as the more
excellent way, thus keeping down their own hopes, dead-
ening their own prayers, and limiting the Holy One of
Israel ? Are not such men like the good man of the house
whose door was shut, and whose children were with him
in bed, so that he did not wish to be disturbed ? O that
an holy quickening were imparted to all such, and then
should our churches behold the goings of the Lord in
his sanctuary ; we should comprehend better what is the
state of deadness in which we have been contentedly
resting, and see more clearly how the spirit must work
before all the ends of the earth are filled with his glory.
Is it so that the kingdoms of nature are liable to all va-
rieties of excitement, and is man alone to remain insen-
sible ? Does the wind swell in all the degrees from the
gentlest breeze to the hurricane ? Do the clouds at times
sleep immovably in the moon-beams, and at times become
the rack driven by the tempest across the face of heaven ?
Does the ocean sometimes lie in breathing slumbers,
and again boil and toss his waves towards the skies? Nay,
does man himself yield to all the paroxysms of despair
and joy, of anger and of love, of ambition and of patriot-
ism ? But on this one subject, the eternal prosperity of
his soul, the achieving of the great purpose for which he
was born, and which, if he achieve not, he had better
never have been born, — on this one subject, is he to be
grer cool, ever deliberate, evet on th& te&me? Is he to

REFLECTIONS. 265

cure for his soul as it were by stealth, and banish from his
conversation the topic which ought to touch him most
nearly ? Is his pastor to be satisfied if he finds out by
accident, as it were, that lately such an one has begun to
study the holy Scriptures, and so he may hope well of
him — and again at a long interval, he discovers that
the same man has established a family altar, and anon
he sees him approach the Lord's table — and all this in so
cautious a manner that a question might seem intrusive,
and the physician of the soul, set there for the express
purpose, dares not approach to feel his pulse and ask
" how is it with thee ?" Such slow work may in the end
be prosperous, but how much of Christian enjoyment and
usefulness does its subject lose during its tardy progress, —
how much of what strikes upon the observation and
conscience of others ! The day of small things is subject
of gratitude to the God who bestows it ; but if it satisfies
us, if it makes us rest there, if it circumscribes our desires
in prayer, if it lowers our hopes, if it chills our zeal, it
becomes a snare. Our minds are more conformed to the
divine purposes as revealed in the Gospel, when we ask
of the Redeemer to take to him his great power and
reign, to take " the heathen for his inheritance, and the
uttermost parts of the earth for his possession/' The
Lord said to his disciples shortly before he left them —
" Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more ;
but ye tee me?* That is the distinguishing mark
of his disciples, the eye of faith sees him, sees his deal-
ings, sees his purposes, sees his promises. The stronger
is faith the clearer is its vision. O let us not lack the
plentiful aids of the holy Spirit, for want of faith to ex-
pect them and to pray for them. Truly we are straiten-
ed in ourselves and not in our gracious Lord — for he
says to us, " Hitherto ye have asked nothing in my name :
ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full."t

• John, xiv. 19. f J"bn, *vi. 24.

[ 266 ]

CHAPTER XX.

KILSYTH.

Some Tracts on the subject of Revivals of ]
have been published by Mr Gallie of Glasgow, an<
their number be few and their extent limited, t
thenticity is unquestionable. That entitled "
1742-3," contains an abstract of Mr Robe's Ni
so suited to our purpose, that we take the libert
propriate it in part. The only alteration made
omission of a 'passage or two, and inserting f
book itself, a few particulars which the small coi
a tract has necessarily excluded.

" Among the many godly ministers who fr<
visited Cambuslang on this memorable occasion
Rev. Mr Robe, minister of the neighbouring p
Kilsyth. Like Mr M'Culloch, he was a man 01
deeply aware of the responsibility attending h:
and anxiously solicitous for the eternal welfan
people. Every time he visited Cambuslang he
have returned to his own charge as if < anoin
fresh oil,' resolutely determined to know nothing
them but ' Jesus Christ, and him crucified.'
time he had laboured in the parish of Kilsyth
space of thirty years, without being aware of any
able success having accompanied his ministratioi
ing that period, the parish had been visited with
fever, by which many, particularly of the godl
suddenly cut off. That visitation was followed
mine, and shortly after, in the summer of 17S
loss was sustained by a destructive storm of thai
lightning ; but, instead of these judgments lea<
people to think of God, whose displeasure they
jgured, and to seek Him * vatYi vi^\™o wA'*

KILSYTH. 267

plication/ wickedness seemed to increase. Mr Robe, in
ius narrative, testifies that no one appeared to be affected
with sin, the cause of all the evils that were complained
oL On the contrary, the Societies for prayer declined,
the love of many waxed cold, the spirit of formality seem-
ed to prevail, and open transgression greatly abounded.
In these painful circumstances the good man betook him-
self to prayer in behalf of his people, and continued still
most faithfully to set before them life and death — the
blessing and the curse. In the year 1740, he commen-
ced a series of practical discourses on the doctrine of re-
generation. He explained and applied, with all faithful-
ness and scriptural simplicity, the nature, the importance,
the necessity, the evidences of this spiritual transforma-
tion, and although these discourses were listened to with
apparent seriousness, yet no visible effects followed at
the time. When Cambuslang and other parishes were
sharing so copiously of the Divine influence, it was mat-
ter of grief and discouragement to Mr Robe that not one
of his people seemed as yet at all to be awakened. He
continued to wrestle much in prayer, and still with af-
fectionate earnestness to exhibit to his people a full and a
free salvation. « The effectual fervent prayer of a righte-
ous man availeth much/ Like Jacob, he wrestled ; and
like Israel, he prevailed. — The Lord did in due time send
a ' plenteous rain.' The first symptoms were the revi-
ving of many of the meetings for prayer, the institution of
some new associations, and particularly of one composed
exclusively of females, from ten to sixteen years of age.
These movements were hailed as the harbinger of bright-
er days.

" Mr Willison of Dundee, ' whose praise is in the
gospel throughout all the churches/ being on a visit to
Cambuslang, spent a few days at Kilsyth, on his way
home. Being requested to preach, he did so, on a Friday
morning, when a multitude of people met, though the
warning was short, and delivered * a distinct, plain, and *
moving sermon/ from these words : — « He brought me
up also out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and
set my feet upon a rock, and e&tsbYuft&di Tcq ^ssxv^

<

268 SCOTLAND.

Many of those who were afterwards effectually awakened
dated their first serious concern about their souls from
hearing that sermon. On the Sabbath following, 18th
April, 1742, Mr Robe preached from these words:-*
1 My little children, of whom I travail in birth again
until Christ be formed in you/ He experienced more than
usual tenderness in reading the text, and could not refrain
from tears. On the Sabbath immediately following, one
woman was awakened to a very distressing sight of her
sinfulness and consequent exposure to misery. She was
observed by some in the congregation to be under great
uneasiness. When the congregation dismissed, she was
not able to proceed on her way home, and soon after was
found in a field, crying out, like the jailer, * what shall I
do to be saved ?' She was brought back to the minister,
who conversed with her for a considerable time. She
said that in hearing the sermon she was made to see that
she was unlike Jesus Christ, and like the Devil, and al-
together in a state of unregeneracy. She had strong
impressions of the greatness of the wrath of God, to
which, on account of sin, she felt herself liable. She
parted with Mr Robe considerably composed. She con-
tinued for some time to endure occasionally very great
mental anguish, but soon after obtained sensible relief
by ( an apprehension of the mercy of God in Christ.'

*' On Sabbath, the 9th of May following, five persons
were awakened to a distressing sight of their sinful and
lost estate. Mr Robe, and the praying people around,
fondly cherished the hope that this might be but as a few
drops before a plentiful rain.

" And now the period uf peculiar favour to this parish
was come, — the time that God had set. Mr Robe in his
narrative states, — " On May 16th, 1 preached as I had
done for some time, on Gal. iv. 19 : ' My little children,
of whom 1 travail in birth until Christ be formed in you.'
While pressing all the un regenerate to seek to have
Christ formed in them, an extraordinary power of the
Divine Spirit accompanied the word preached. There
was a great mourning, as for an only son. Many cried
out, and these not only women, W\. «oma strong and

KILSYTH. 269

earted young men. After the congregation was
ed, continues Mr Robe, an attempt was made to

distressed intp some barn, but their number was
t this was impossible, and I was obliged to con-
tem in the kirk. I sung a psalm and prayed with
but when I essayed to speak to them I could not
d, so great were their bitter cries, groans, and the
F their weeping. After this, I requested that they
x>me into my closet, one by one. I sent for the
[r John Oughterson, minister of Cumbernauld,
mediately came to assist me in dealing with the
ed. In the mean time, I appointed psalms to be
ith those in the kirk, and that the precentor and
three of the elders should pray with them. The
f the distressed was heard from afar. It was
t to hear those who had been in a state of enmity
od, despisers of Jesus Christ, and Satan's content-
's, crying out for mercy ; — some, that they were
I undone ; others, ' what shall we do to be saved ;'
praising God for this day, and for awakening
and not a few, not only weeping and crying for
ves, but for their graceless relations. And yet
1 have moved the hardest heart, that many of
Like the Israelites under Pharaoh's oppression,
id not when I spoke unto them, they were so
elmed with anguish of spirit, because of the spiri-
dage they felt they were under. — There appeared
hiity awakened this day, but afterwards I found
5 number was considerably greater.'

the Wednesday immediately following this day
Ledeemer 8 power, there was a sermon for the first
a week-day. Mr Warden, minister of Campsie,.

M'Laurin, one of the ministers of Glasgow,
d on the occasion. The number of the awakened

was as great as on the Lord's day. Nor did this
mt of Divine grace soon terminate. The blessed
: conviction and conversion went on. The Re-
did « ride prosperously because of truth, and meek-
id righteousness.' — His * arrows were sharp in
rt of the King's enemies.'

I

270 SCOTLAND.

" When the revival commenced, such was %\
of the people to hear the Word of God, that, as 1
just stated, it was found necessary to institute
day lecture. Wednesday was the day selected
purpose ; and on that day there were sometimes
even three discourses. Monday, Tuesday, Ti
and Friday were appropriated for conversing i
spiritually distressed. Notwithstanding such a
labours, Mr Robe was enabled to persevere — hii
health suffered not, and his inward man prospere
day. His friends sometimes tried to persuade hi
lax his excessive labours, but, — growing love t
intense compassion for perishing souls, ardent
the promotion of God's glory, constrained him 1
vere in his arduous but interesting duties. ' It
came,' says he, ( the pleas an test work in which I
gaged. Though I was wearied when I went to 1
like the labouring man, my rest was sweet to m
Lord gave me the sleep of his beloved, and I was
the morning. The way of the Lord hath been
and my strength.'

" The ordinance of the Supper was, as usual, di
on the second Sabbath of June, and was attendee
happiest results in the experience of many. The
work of conviction and conversion continued gi
increase after that solemn communion service, at
intimated to the minister in the middle of Se;
following, that a general desire existed among thi
for another and an early opportunity of observi
ordinance. After much prayer and conference
part both of the minister and the people, it was i
that the death of our Lord should be a second tii
brated that year; which was accordingly done
third Sabbath of October. The account given
Robe of that interesting solemnity is truly heart-!
Upon the Fast-day, sermon was in the fields to
numerous and attentive audience, by three mi
without any intermission, because of the shortnes
day. Upon the Friday evening there was sermoi

KILSYTH. 271

kirk, and there was a good deal of concern among the
people. Upon Saturday, there was sermon both in the
kirk and in the fields. Upon the Lord's day, the public
service began about half-past eight in the morning, and
continued without intermission till half- past eight in the
evening. I preached the action sermon, by the Divine
direction and assistance, from Eph. ii. 7. < That in the
ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his
grace, in his kindness towards us, through Christ Jesus. 9
There were twenty-two services, each consisting of about
seventy persons. The evening sermon began imme-
diately after the last table service. And though I desired
that the congregation in the fields should be dismissed
after the last service, yet they chose rather to continue
together till all was over. During all the services there
was the most desirable frame and observable concern
among the people, that had ever been any where seen.
It began to be considerable, when Mr Warden of Campsie
preached, and it continued and greatly increased while
Mr Spiers preached, who concluded the public work of
the day in the fields. On Monday there were sermons both
in the kirk and in the fields. There was a good deal of ob-
servable concern ; and several were brought under spiritual
distress in the fields. In the evening, two ministers
preached to the numerous distressed convened in the
kirk. On Tuesday morning there was a sermon preached,
and a discourse by another minister, containing suitable
instructions and directions, both to the awakened and to
those who had never attained to any sight or sense of
their sin and danger. The spiritual fruits of this solemn
and extraordinary dispensation of Word and Sacrament
were truly animating. Many secure sinners were awak-
ened. Zion's mighty King brought the wheel of the law
oyer them, and sent them home with broken and contrite
hearts. Some who came hither in a state of spiritual
distress and law-work, felt such a time of the Mediators
power as enabled them to embrace Jesus Christ with such
distinctness, as to know that they had done it. Many
had the love of Christ so shed abroad in their hearts by

272 SCOTLAND.

the Holy Ghost, that they could not contain, b
constrained to break forth in floods of tears, in t
significant expressions of their own vileness and
thiness, and of the deep sense they had of the ex
riches of God's grace, in his kindness towards t
Christ Jesus.'

" It is delightful to contemplate the solid ni

this work of revival. It was far removed from

siastic fanaticism on the one hand, and presut

Antinomianism on the other. Although son

seemed to be awakened ultimately fell away, yet

perience of many made it unequivocally manife

( the Lord himself had given the word.' Deep hi

hatred of all sin, love of holiness, aspirations af

fbrmity to the image of God, fervent prayers and

vours that others might be brought to the earn

and the same enjoyments, characterised the great<

ber of the individuals with whom Mr Robe was c

converse. Indeed, the views of sin, and of the

salvation, entertained by the individuals broughl

the power of this blessed work of the Spirit, wen

rally speaking, of the most scriptural and enlig

description. One man being asked ( what he took

with Christ to be ;' made this most intelligent re

( I take closing with Christ to be, a receiving of

a Prophet, to teach me the way of salvation ; as a

to atone for me, and to be my righteousness in tt

of God ; and, as a King, to rule over me, and to

sin and corruption in me : and that without (

righteousness imputed, I can never be accepted

sight of God/ One woman, after she was brou^

tinctly to receive, and rest alone upon Christ for sal

thus expressed herself: — ' Worldly thoughts are aw

me now, and oh ! that they would never return

Ten thousand worlds could not give me the love

with which Christ now fills me/ When askei

questions by Mr Robe, she said, « Sir, though you pi

tions to me, as was done to Peter, Christ, who knoi

things, and who knows my heart, knows that I c

KILSYTH. 273

him, and I am resolved, in the strength of imparted pro-
mised grace, to show my love to him by keeping his
commandments.' She sometimes gave utterance to such
words as these — * He is my sure portion, whom I have
chosen for ever. O, what hath be done for me ! I de-
sire to have all the world brought to him, that they too
may partake of his rich and sovereign grace/

" Although the greater number, like the awakened at
the day of Pentecost, or like the convicted jailer at
Philippi, were made to cry out, under a sense of sin and
apprehension of coming wrath, and could not conceal their
distress, yet many were brought to Jesus in a more
gentle and silent manner, whose cases were not made
known to Mr Robe till they had obtained peace in be-
lieving. One or two instances of this kind may be given,
nearly in Mr Robe's own words, from among the many
that might he quoted : — A woman who was brought to
concern on 16th May, waited upon Mr Robe the follow-
ing week, manifesting great anxiety for the salvation of
her soul. * I was,' says he, * much pleased with the cha-
racter of her convictions, with her knowledge, and the
longing desires she expressed after Jesus Christ. I said
to her, * essay to accept of Christ, bestir yourself, rise
up at his call, and invite him to enter into your heart,
into your soul.' Without intending or meaning what
she did, she arose with great composure, stood and prayed
in a most scriptural style. She acknowledged sin origi-
nal and actual, her utter want of righteousness, the won-
derfulness of God's patience to her. She prayed for
mercy, to be drawn to Jesus Christ, and that she might
be clothed with his white raiment. Sometimes in her
address, she would say — * Sweet Jesus ;' * He is precious ;'
1 He is altogether lovely.' She first came to sensible re-
lief from a sermon I preached on John, xvi. 10, 'Of
righteousness, because 1 go to my Father, and ye see me
no more.' In her return home that day, these words
were strongly impressed on her mind — * My heart is
fixed, O God, my heart is fixed ; I will sing and give
praise.' She fell down upon her knees ; her heart being

s

1

274 SCOTLAND.

filled with joy in the Lord, and her mouth with his
praise. —

— " ' C. D. came first under convictions by hearing
the doctrine of regeneration stated, as it is the writing oi
God's law upon the sinner's heart, from Heb. viii. 10
He was made distinctly to see that it was not as ye
written upon his heart, and that if he would be happ]
hereafter, it was indispensably necessary that it should b
so. Upon the evening of the day when he received hi
first impressions, he conversed with a friend concernin
the resurrection, the general judgment, and the sad stal
in which impenitent sinners must be throughout eternit]
By such converse his impressions were deepened. Ever
sermon and every awakening experienced by his neigl
hours, was blessed for the same end. He told me thi
he could apply to himself the greater part of a sermon I
heard from me concerning the Spirit's convincing tl
world of sin ; such as, that he usually begins with oi
sin, and after that proceeds to convince of particular sin
He was convinced of the sins of his heart, and of the ev
nature of sin. He was not so much distressed about sii
as exposing him to hell, but he felt particularly grieve
as it was an insult offered to a holy God. He got sue
a sight of the filthiness of sin, as to loathe himself c
account of it. He was also convinced of the great sin <
unbelief, of the sinfulness of the least thought of ii
iquity, though not consented thereto : of the evil of sel
conceit, a sense of the sinfulness of which stuck as lor
with him, as he termed it, as any thing else. He was ah
sensible of his inability to help himself, of his own wai
of righteousness, and that he could not work out
righteousness for himself. He was brought to see tl
sufficiency of Christ's righteousness, and that he, to uj
his own words, was always ready, if he would but tru
in him. Seeing that he had not informed any one of h
spiritual distress till he got relief by believing in Chris
1 asked what it was that kept up his spirit under fear ai
trouble of mind, continuing so long ? He told me th
when his heart was like to burst in prayer, that wo
came constantly in his mind, and encouraged him to wt

KILSYTH. 27^

for the Lord with patience and hope : — ' I waited patiently
for the Lord, and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.'
His first relief came in this manner. In the society for
prayer of which he had become a member, he enquired,
< What was the most proper exercise for a person under
convictions ? ' to which it was replied by a very judicious
Christian, ' That it was to behold the Lamb of God,'
which he essayed to do. — When I gave, in a public dis-
course, the marks of those who had Christ formed in them,
he said that by the help of the Spirit he could apply them
all to himself, and that during prayer and after sermon he
was in a frame surprising to himself ; that his whole heart
and affections went out in closing with Jesus Christ, and
that he was filled with rejoicing and wonder at his love.' "

Mr Robe had, with wonderful care and diligence, re-
corded particular accounts of the cases of young and old,
male and female, of those who received conviction in
silence, and had the work of faith wrought in them be-
fore he was aware, and of those who could not refrain
from crying out for anguish of spirit. We add brief
examples, besides those given in the tract, to exhibit
how carefully it has been proved that this work was of
the Spirit of truth : —

« June 11, 1742.

" Because I know what joy and thankfulness it gives
you" (says Mr Robe, in a letter to a friend), " to hear
of our dear Lord's appearing in his glory and majesty, in
conquering his enemies to himself, I embrace the oppor-
tunity to write to you, that this hath been a good week,
one of the best I ever saw — though of the greatest la-
bour, yet of the greatest pleasure. I had a closet full of
little ones yesternight, making a pleasant noise and out-
cry for Christ, and two of the youngest, one of them but
ten, fainting and so distressed, they could scarce go home.
I cannot write unto you the wonders I saw — one of
eleven crying out she was sick of sin, with hands uplifted
to Heaven. When I told her that if she were willing to
take Christ he would heal her, — * I am willing with all
my heart, and from the bottom of my heart, to take
him I ' I bade her wait with patience, w& VAWs* ^fcfe
minded the 40th Psalm. She noted ovei Wifc tax Vw€««

276 SCOTLAND.

lines with great calmness. I hear they have been very
distressed last night and this day ; I would fain hope that
relief may not be far from them. O, pray for the poor
young babes. — tells me just now she is come to joy
and peace in believing, for which I beg you will praise

the Lord, and employ others to do it. Poor little

speaks to the distressed like herself. This is a pleasant
countryside by it was. I wish you were here. Wed-
nesday was a wonderful day, when we were afraid that
the work was like to stop. There have been ten new
ones belonging to this congregation since last Lord's day;
so that, if I count right, they are about or near seventy,
besides those who belong to other congregations, of which
I can have no account." *

" R. S. was first touched with convictions on the
Lord's day, May 16th. He heard sermon on Wednes-
day at Kilsyth, and on Thursday at Kirkintilloch, but
struggled with his convictions till Thursday night, when
he could hold no longer, but getting up from his father's
fireside, ran out to the fields, where he cried out vio-
lently under his distress. He came to me on the morn-
ing of the 21st of May, with great outcries. He had a
distressing sight of particular sins, such as Sabbath-
breaking, cursing, swearing, evil thoughts. He was
grieved for sin as an offence against God, and said, with
great earnestness, he would give a thousand worlds for
Christ. May 24th, he said he saw he had a corrupt
nature, and the evil of despising Christ through unbelief,
and that he would, not for all the world, not have this
uneasy sight of sin, nor be freed from it, until he came
to Christ.

" [June 8th and 10th.] His spiritual distress conti-
nuing, and complaining of the hardness of his heart, I
endeavoured to instruct him in the nature of faith, and
the way of salvation by Jesus Christ.

" [June 17th.] He said he was very uneasy in the
kirk on Tuesday evening, after he heard the valuable
Mr Whitfield preach. He said that his heart warmed
to Christ. I asked him why ? He replied, because of

• Robe's "Nattative, ^. YS&.

KILSYTH. 277

1

his love to poor sinners, and to me the chief of all sin-
ners. I enquired, if it was accompanied with hatred at
sin ? He cried out, for having- offended such a just and
holy God, and that he hated every thing that was offen-
sive to him. He said he had essayed to close with
Christ, and that his very heart warms when he speaks of
him. That this word came home to him, and runs con-
tinually in his mind, Mat. xi. 28, 29, ' Come unto me
all ye that labour and are heavy laden,' &c.

" [[June 24th.] He said he was some easier since he
was last with me, and that he had endeavoured to close
with a whole Christ, and counts all things but loss and
dung for the excellency of the knowledge of Jesus
Christ, and that he has now an inclination to Christ, and
that his heart flutters in him like a bird, when he thinks
of him. July 3d, he told me he is now well, for Sab-
bath last, while a reverend minister was speaking of the
prodigal son, and that his father ran to meet him, he
thought what a prodigal he had been, and that Jesus had
come to him. He was filled with such a sense of it,
that he was like to flee from the seat where he was
sitting. He said he was filled with love to Christ from
a sense of Christ's love to him, and that he had closed
with Christ in all his offices, and laid the stress of his
whole salvation upon him. He said, < Sir, many a day
I have had a light heart in sin, but now my heart is light
indeed, and my love to Christ every day grows.'

" [July 13th.] When at the Lord's table, to which
he was admitted last Lord's day, he had the greatest
comfort in closing with a whole Christ in all his offices,
and his heart warmed in him. He had large views of
what a vile sinner he had been, and of the wonders
grace and mercy had done for him, particularly in bring-
ing him to his holy table. He blessed the Lord with
heart, and soul, and spirit, and all that was within him,
for Christ, and what he had done for him, and that he
had fears lest he should fall away, and made application
to Jesus Christ to keep him ; and that it was a joyful
sight to him when he saw the bread broken, a si^u of
Christ's body broken for him, which he \>e\W^&r

\

273 SCOTLAND.

" Y. Z. was frequently under concern last winter, while
the doctrine of regeneration was preached ; he examined
himself by the Scripture marks given of regeneration,
but could find none in himself. Yet his concern came
no length. He was brought under deeper concern on
Sabbath fortnight, in hearing the marks of unbelievers,
in a sermon I preached from John, iii. 36. These cut
him wholly off. He was convinced of particular sins, of
the evil of unbelief, the corruption of nature, and the
need of a new nature. He is sorry for sin, and would be
so, though it did not make him liable to hell, because he
hath offended and dishonoured God by his sins. As to
self-loathing, he says that he hates himself for his sins,
and is convinced that no suffering of his can ever satisfy
the offended justice of God for the least of his offences,
and if he could abstain from all sin for the time to come,
and keep the law perfectly, it could not satisfy for the
evil of sin already past. This is only to be obtained by
the righteousness of Christ imputed to him.

" [July 6th.] By the account he gives of himself, I
am persuaded he hath closed with Christ. I endea*
voured to answer and satisfy many objections and doubts
he proposed to me. I advised him to receive the Lord's
Supper, but he durst not adventure, being doubtful
about his faith and interest in Christ, though he had
been formerly a communicant. He has since attained to
some satisfying Scripture marks of his interest in Christ,
has received the Lord's Supper, and continues to walk in
the fear of the Lord, and some measure of the comfort
of the Holy Ghost."

" B. A. came to me, June 18th. She had been un-
easy since the 16th of May. Her concern increased upon
her, Sabbath, Monday, and Tuesday last. She was con-
vinced of unbelief, and the evil of it, and was very un-
easy about the sin of unworthy communicating, but did
not seem to be convinced particularly of her other sins
against the law, nor of the corruption of her nature ; and
was sorry for sin only because of its making her liable to
the wrath of God. I gave her instruction and direction
suited to my view of her case*

KILSYTH. 279

" [July 5th.] She then saw particular sins, hut was
most of all uneasy ahout unworthy communicating, and
the sin of unbelief. She professed that she was sorry
for sin because she had offended God by it, and also that
she loathed herself for sin. She did not as yet appear to
be convinced of the corruption of her nature. 1 advised
her to cry to God to convince her of it, to give her faith
to embrace Christ, &c.

" [July 9th.] She now saw that she brought a cor-
rupt nature into the world, that is enmity to God and all
good, and that she is lost and undone by it. She had
accepted Jesus, in all his offices and his righteousness, to
be hers in the sight of God, seeing all her own righteous-
ness to be but filthy rags. After instruction and direc-
tion, I admitted her to the Lord's Table. [July 19th.]
She was under much fear and terror before she came to
the Lord's Table, but said, * I will go in the strength of
God the Lord.' When she was there, she was filled with
joy in Christ, as a sufficient Saviour. She had a view of
her sins piercing him, and sorrow on that account. She
continues to live and to walk as becometh a good
Christian." Such are some of the fruits of the revival at
Kilsyth.

" It is emphatically said by an inspired writer, that
' the grace of God which bringeth salvation, teaches to
deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, and to live soberly,
righteously, and godly, in this present evil world.' This
declaration of holy Scripture, received remarkable illus-
tration at Kilsyth. The number of individuals who were
awakened, and who afterwards publicly professed the faith
of Christ, was about three hundred, and by various au-
thentic documents recorded in Mr Robe's Narrative, it is
ascertained that the conversation of all these was such as
became the Gospel. The moral influence on the parish
generally was remarkable.

«« Mr Robe thus writes — ' Among the instances of the
good fruits of this work upon the people, may be men-
tioned visible reformation from many open sins, particu-
larly cursing, swearing, and drinking. In social meeting
edifying" conversation has taken place of ^Yfl&^ttfc W&q

280 SCOTLAXD.

foolish, or censorious. Instead of worldly and common
discourse on the Lord's day, there is that which is spiri-
tual and good to the use of edifying. There is little of
what was formerly common, strolling about the fields, or
sitting idle at the doors of their house on that holy day.
There is a general desire after public ordinances. Before
this, I could never prevail with the best to attend the
preaching of the Word during the week, and therefore,
could have no stated weekly meeting for expounding:
now, however, they desire it, and the generality of the.
people attend as regularly as upon the Lord's day. The
worship of God is set up and maintained in many families,
who formerly neglected it. There are many new societies
for prayer, composed of individuals of all ages, and not
only of those who have been lately awakened, but of
those who before had a character for seriousness. Former
feuds and animosities are in a great measure laid aside and
forgot, and this hath been the most peaceable summer
amongst neighbours that was ever known in this parish.
I have heard little or nothing of that pilfering and steal-
ing that was so frequent before this work began. Yea,
there have been several instances of restitution, and some
of these showing consciences of more than ordinary ten-
derness. The change of the face of our public meetings
for worship is visible.; there was never such attention
and seriousness seen in them as now. The change is
observed by every one who formerly knew the parish.
One observing person said to me, that if there was no
more gained by this wonderful work of the Spirit, there
was at least a great increase of morality.' "

In the revival at Kilsyth, nothing is more worthy of
remark than the character of Mr Robe himself. Thirty
years their pastor, he had prayed and pined in secret, and
watched with a discouraged spirit to see some token that
his words did not all fall to the ground. Pestilence swept
away many of his praying members ; and instead of others
coming up in the time of calamity to fill up the gaps and
cry to the Lord, it seemed that their hearts were dead-
ened by the stroke, and the praying companies dwindled
away. Famine succeeded, but with no better effect—
their hearts were not broken Wt \*axtane&. \mr\<w \to& W

KILSYTH. 281

fliction. Yet, as it was with Israel of old, the Lord was
thus preparing his way in their hearts, and in the heart
of his servant who mourned oyer all that was lost, with-
out ceasing to supplicate that the Lord would return and
visit them. He was directed to a course of preaching on
regeneration, which, though he saw no immediate result,
he found when the set time was come, had been silently
working in the minds of many. When he heard the glad
news from Cambuslang he rejoiced exceedingly, and
hastened to obtain a portion of the anointing that was
shed on pastor and people there ; and then he inwardly
prayed and longed and watched more than they that
watch for the morning, to see the good gift extended to
his own dear people — and sometimes he told them to go
to Cambuslang, and sometimes he reproached them that
they came as unaffected as they went. O, that more of
those who look that the salvation of Jesus shall over-
spread the earth, were but on tiptoe as this servant of
God was, looking out for it, and urging it onward by all
scriptural means. What a period of hungering and
thirsting was that with Mr Kobe, between Februrary,
when he heard of the first souls awakened at Cambuslang,
and April, when he saw the same blessed influences ex-
tending to Kilsyth. He exclaims in the simplicity of a
glad heart, " how pleasant a part of the country this is
by " (in comparison of) " what it was formerly." Pleasant,
because '* the Lord was there." And again, " It became
soon the pleasantest work ever I was engaged in. I
found the distrest profiting under the means of grace by
the Lord's blessing, first, coming to hate sin and mourn
for it, out of a regard for God, — and pressing after an
interest in the Lord Jesus Christ. It diverted" (delighted)
" me to see young and old carrying their Bibles with them,
and either reading some passage that had been of use to
them, or looking out and marking some that I recom-
mended to them. The world appeared changed to me,
and as I noticed to them, when I came to their doors to *
catechise them once or twice in the year, the least trifle
hindered their attendance, but now they were glad to j
come twice or thrice in the week, and gTO&fr} to tokssh*

282 SCOTLAND.

instruction ; and what cold soul would not have rejoiced
in such a change, and welcomed them in the name of the
Lord ? Though I was wearied when I went to bed, yet)
like the labouring man, my rest was sweet to me — the
Lord gave me the sleep of his beloved, and I was fresh
by the morning ; and now, after labouring so much for
these four months, and preaching more than at any time,
I mention it to the praise of my Great Master's good-
ness — my body is like those of Daniel and the three
children, — fatter in flesh than when I began, and my
bodily ails nowise increased — the way of the Lord has
been my life and strength." Happy man ! He waited
on the Lord till he gave him the desire of his heart ; and
four months of success made him forget thirty years of
prophesying in sackcloth.

We shall use No. III. of Mr Gallie's Revival Tracts
in the same manner as we have used No. IL, making
additions and omissions as seem convenient. It is plea-
sant to mention even the names of parishes, which could
produce their forty, sixty, or an hundred, who had been
made partakers of the gracious influences in 1742 and
1 743 ; and the names of the men employed in promoting
the work, many of whom are honoured for their holy lives,
and for their writings. It is particularly worthy of re-
mark, that in the districts where a spirit of controversy
had got a footing, by means of the secession from the
church, which had recently taken place, neither church
nor secession partook of the good gift which God was
bestowing. Hearts hot with contention are not in a
position to receive divine truth. Conviction of sin will
not enter where party spirit rules, and the Spirit of Peace
hath no place in the bosom given to human strife. The
revival spread to the north and west of Kilsyth, but its
progress to the east was met by this evil influence, and
it stayed. The minds of many were strangely disturbed
by political projects and secret plots at the period* It
will be remembered that this was only three years before
the Rebellion of 1745. But before that spreading evil
arrived many had been gathered into the fold, many esta-
blished in their faith, and many taught to pray for peace

BALDEBNOCK. 283

preservation of their privileges, — whose influence
i counted among those things which prevailed to
i a termination to that rebellion so favourable to
firmation of our Christian rights.
the parish of Torpbichen, to the eastward of Lin-
, at that time under the ministry of Mr Bonar,
eraons were awakened at the dispensation of the

of the Lord, on the first Sabbath of August,
vho afterwards were enabled to give scriptural
e of being in Christ by a living faith,
e case of the parish of Baldernock deserves to be
arly noticed. Few of the people had visited
laces in which the revivals took place ; and al-
for some years there had been no regular pastor,
rat ninety individuals were brought under the
ing influence of the Spirit of promise. Mr
i, who had previously laboured amongst them in
ings for about fifty years, had been faithful and
; and perhaps the many conversions that now
ice, might be remotely traced to his ministrations,
id which lies long concealed may spring up in an
it harvest. But in the absence of a regular
r, God, who can accomplish His purposes of mercy
ak as well as with powerful means, raised up and
I Mr James Forsyth, who occupied the humble
ourable station of parochial schoolmaster, as the
ent of carrying forward, in that parish, the good
lat had made such advances in the surrounding
He was evidently a good man. He had been
tinguished for godliness. His experience of the
mess of Christ, could not but prompt him to
i the opportunity, which his profession furnished,
ling the knowledge of that Name, and of that
n, which he knew to be so essential to the true
38 of the people with whom he was brought in

He partook of the joy with which the news
ealings with his church was received by such
nselves tasted that the Lord is gracious ; and
diar circumstances of the parish, he endeavoi
' means in his power, to infuse the wnfe

284 SCOTLAND.

life among the people. He spoke, more especially to
the young, with earnestness and affection about their
lost condition by nature and practice, about the love of
God manifested in the gift of his Son for the salvation
of sinners ready to perish ; and the Holy Spirit was
pleased to convey these simple but impressive truths to
the souls of his interesting charge, who, in their turn,
were enabled to leave a testimony to the truth in the
consciences of the adult population. Would there were
many such teachers of youth ! Would that they felt
that they and their youthful charge shall stand together
in the judgment, and must render an account of then
important stewardship ! Religious instruction was made
to hold a prominent place in the school under the charge
of Mr Forsyth ; and for the encouragement of all in like
circumstances, these instructions were rendered instru-
mental for the conversion of many. God countenanced
his feeble endeavours, and made him the honoured in-
strument of winning many souls to Christ. His own
account of the matter is detailed in letters to Mr Robe,
and will be felt deeply interesting and animating, by all
who have any love for ardent piety or disinterested zeal,
In a letter, dated 17th July, 1742, he thus writes: —
* Since the first of February last, I endeavoured, to the
utmost of my power, to instruct the children under my
charge in the first principles of religion — that they were
born in a state of sin and misery, and strangers to God
by nature. I pressed them, with every argument I could
think of, to give up their sinful ways, and flee to Jesu*
Christ by faith and repentance ; and, by the blessing oi
God, my efforts were not made in vain. Glory to His
holy name, that that which was spoken in much weak-
ness, was accompanied by the power of His Holy Spirit
I likewise warned them against the commission of known
sin. I told them the danger of persisting contrary tc
the voice of conscience, and the plain dictates of the
Word of God ; assuring them, that if they did so, theii
sin would one day find them out. These exhortations,
frequently repeated, made at last some impressions or
their young hearts. This was used as a means in God'i

BALDERNOCK. 285

btnd lor bringing the elder sort to a more serious con-
cern, and a greater diligence in religious duties. One of
the school-boys, who went to Cambuslang in March,
was the first awakened. He, in a short time thereafter,
asked permission to meet with two or three of the other
boys in the school-room, for the purpose of praying and
singing psalms. I had great pleasure in granting this
request. Very soon after, a few more of the boys mani-
fested deep concern for their souls ; and in fourteen days
after the opening of this youthful prayer meeting, ten
or twelve were hopefully awakened ; none of them were
above thirteen years of age — a few of them were so young
as eight or nine. These associated together for devo-
tional duties. Their love for these services increased ;
to much so, that they met sometimes three times a-day,
—early in the morning, — at noon, during the interval
of school hours, — and in the evening. These soon for-
sook all their childish fancies and plays, and were known
to their school companions by their general appearance,
by their walk and conversation. All this had a happy
effect upon the other children. Many were awakened
by their means. They became remarkable for tenderness
of conscience. A word of terror occurring in their
lessons would sometimes make them cry out and weep
bitterly. Some of them could give a most intelligent
account of their experience of divine truth. They were
sensible of the sin of their nature, of their actual trans-
gressions, and even of the sin of unbelief; for when I
would exhort them to believe in Christ, who was both
able and willing to save them to the uttermost, they
would reply, in the most affecting terms, that they knew
He was both able and willing, but their hearts were so
hard that they could not believe aright of themselves,
till (rod gave them the new heart — that they could do
nothing for their hard hearts.'

" It has been often illustrated, that ' out of the mouths
of babes and sucklings God perfects praise/ What heart
that reads this narrative can feel unmoved at the strik-
ing illustration thus furnished of this scripture saying,
in the case of the youth of the parish of ttaYtaxTUKk^

286 SCOTLAND.

under the care of Mr Forsyth ! Who would not pray
that all teachers of youth were blessed with piety like
his, with zeal like his, with success like his !

" Respecting the people in general, Mr F. thus writes;
' Some were awakened at Cambuslang, others at Calder
and Kirkintilloch, hut the greater number at the private
meetings for prayer held in the parish. These meet-
ings were held twice a- week, and all were admitted whc
chose to attend.' — These meetings were eminently comv
tenanced. Many who attended were blessed with th<
communications of Divine grace, and made to experiena
the image and the earnest of the fellowship that is above

* Two young women/ says Mr Forsyth, « who had beei
at Cambuslang, and who brought back an evil report
saying, that they wondered what made the people cr
out, on the 22d of June, came to one of these meeting
in Baldernock, as was supposed, with no good design
Before a quarter of an hour had elapsed, they wer
brought under serious convictions, and continued in dif
tress during the remaining exercises of the evening.'

" These details of the awakening in Baldernock fiirnis]
an impressive commentary on these words of scripture—

* Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith th
Lord : ' ' I will have mercy on whom I will have mere}
and I will have compassion on whom I will have com
passion ' — and should stimulate every Christian, in hi
own sphere, to labour for Christ, trusting that th
Divine Spirit will come ' and leave a blessing behin
Him.'

" At the parish of Killearn, about sixteen miles nort
from Glasgow, there was a considerable awakening at th
dispensation of the Lord's supper, on the third Sabbat!
of July, 1742. This was particularly the case on th
Monday, when sermons were delivered by Mr Michac
Potter, professor of divinity in the University of Glas
gow, and Mr Mackie, minister of St Ninians.

" There were about a hundred awakened in the parisl
of Campsie ; and about the same number in the parisl
of Calder, in the immediate neighbourhood. The cii
-cumstances connected with the revival at Calder ar

CALDER. 287

'hat remarkable. Mr Warden, the minister, was
omed to give a weekly lecture in a small village at
distance from the church."

s lecture he intimated from the pulpit on the Sab-
ay. He had kept his appointment week after week,
und the congregation had dwindled away, so that in
> of deep discouragement on the occasion, just before
rival, he added, in a voice of tender pathos, after
timation, " But why should I tell you, for you will
»me." In this state of feeling he went to the place,
g resolved to discontinue the lecture. The people
g been touched with pity for the evident sorrow
^appointment of their minister, said to each other,
r body, let us go this time." He, unconscious of
turpose of theirs, went unprepared with a sermon,
as much dismayed when on looking into the room
ind it crowded. *' Oh/' cried he in the genuine sim-
r of his character, " I have often been here with a
>n when there were no folks, and now when there
enty of folks I have no sermon." " He retired into
d at a little distance, earnestly to implore Divine
ion and blessing. Immediately he returned to the
3, and preached from these words which had been
ssted to his mind while in the wood — * Unto you,
m, I call ; and my voice is to the sons of men,'
viii. 4. From this text he opened up the fulness,
•eeness, the grace of the gospel proclamation. The
Spirit accompanied the word spoken with power.
r were brought under His humbling influence, and
ately made to bow to the sceptre of Jesus."
adition has not preserved any mention of a move-
on the minds of the people which led to this act of
as it is termed on their part, yet it is probable that
^s from the revived places around, or that the un-
influences of the Divine Spirit, or both, operated on
, so as to prepare the way for the power with which
srmon came to their hearts. The Lord condescends
e such mixed motives as human beings are liable to
ected by, to do us good. The same compassionate
1, who cast his eye up to the tree yi\i\c\i Zfc&O&ssaa

>

288 SCOTLAND.

had climbed, perhaps from no better motive than curio-
sity, and said, " this day hath salvation come to tby
house," looked on the country folks, who assembled out
of pity to his humble and single-hearted servant, and that
night sent salvation to their hearts.

" In May, 1742, Mr MacLaurin of Glasgow, and Mi
Robe of Kilsyth, preached in Kirkintilloch on the Fast
day previous to the dispensation of the Supper. Mi
Burnside, the minister of the parish, preached in thi
evening. The work of conviction that day was genera
and powerful. In the words of Mr Robe, * Zion's might]
King did appear in His glory and majesty, and His arrow
were sharp in the heart of His enemies.' About a hun
dred and twenty applied to the minister, anxiously seek
ing the way to Zion, evidently with their faces thither
ward. About the same time there were fourteen o
fifteen awakened at Cumbernauld, under the preachinj
of Mr Whitfield ; and about eighty individuals by th<
ordinary ministrations of their own pastor Mr Ought erson

" At the dispensation of the supper, in St Ninians, 01
the first Sabbath of August of the same year, there wen
several awakened by means of the sermons on the Satur
day, many more on Sabbath, and a far greater numbe
on the Monday, which was, on the testimony of M:
Robe, ' one of the greatest days of the Mediator's powe:
ever beheld/ On Thursday immediately following, a
the usual week-day lecture, a considerable number mon
were awakened. Mr Mackie, the minister of the parish
was instrumental in leading many of the enquirers to th<
Lamb of God, who taketh away the sin of the world
Some time after, Mr Mackie states, ' that impression!
upon the people are far from wearing off. Their be*
haviour is such that their enemies themselves cannot
find fault with it. It gives me great pleasure to hear then
pray and converse. Our audience is most attentive t<
the preaching of the word.'

" In the parish of Gargunnoch there were about i
hundred awakened, the greater number of whom wen
brought to a state of concern for their souls, while at
tending- the dispensation of the supper at Kilsyth, on th<

ST NINIANS. 289

ond Sabbath of July, or the dispensation of that ordi-
lce at Campsie, on the last Sabbath of that month, or
St Ninians, on the first Sabbath of August. At the
3k-day lecture, on the 5th of August, there were
hteen awakened; and in the week following many
re. In a letter, of date 1 7th March the following
ir, Mr Warden, the minister of the parish, writes, —
he concern in a great measure continues ; fellowship
etings increase; and even the meetings for prayer among

children. The impression among the people, in
leral, is still apparent, by a diligent attendance upon
inances, lore to our God and Redeemer, and to all

children of our Lord's family ; crying to Christ, and
ricing in Him ; and all this associated with a sober
. blameless walk and conversation. A few are under
ritual concern in the parish of Kippen, and there is
ae stir in the parish of Monivaird.' "
Of the parish of Muthill, in Perthshire, there is a full
ount by Mr Halley the minister, in Robe's Monthly
story, No. VI. p. 53. 1744. Extracts of the cir-
nstances which most display the reality and pecu-
ity of that work are all that we can afford.

<< Muthill, Sept 28th) 1742.

ft * * « j n general, for about a year, there has
n an unusual stirring and seeming concern in this
tgregation, and some now and then falling under con-
sions. A closer attention to the word preached and
eiving it with apparent appetite was, by myself and
ers, observed — until the Lord's Supper was dispensed
■e, the third Sabbath of July, at which time I think
• conquering Redeemer made some visible inroads on
\ kingdom of Satan. * * But whatever the Lord
s pleased to shed down of the influences of his Spirit
>n that solemn occasion, comparatively speaking, may
accounted but a day of small things, in respect of
at he has been pleased to do amongst us since. I must
nowledge, to the praise of our gracious God, that an
lsual power hath attended the word preached every
)bath day since ; few, if any Sabbaths havs \ftss«&

290 SCOTLAND.

without some having been awakened, and particularly Ust
Lord's Day, which I hope I may say was a day of the
Son of Man in this place ; for besides the general con-
cern that was seen in the congregation, about eighteen
persons which I came to know of that night, were pricked
at the heart, and deeply wounded by the arrows of the
Almighty. I have been rery agreeably entertained with
the visits of distressed souls crying out for Christ, and
" what shall we do to be saved ? " The work of the law
has been severe and outwardly noticeable upon . all that
I have conversed with, — their convictions hare been
deep, cutting, and abiding. And yet I have not observed
the least tendency to despair, but giving satisfying evi-
dence of a kindly work of the Spirit, the law acting the
part of a schoolmaster, leading them to Christ, in whom
I hope a great many of them are safely landed, and have
had their souls filled with joy and peace in believing ; and
some have received such a measure of the joy of Heaven,
that the narrow crazy vessel could hold no more.
Though some old people have been awakened, yet this
work is most noticeable among the younger sort,— and
some within twelve years of age have been observably
wrought on, and the fruits are very agreeable ; among
others their delight in prayer, and their frequent meeting
together for that end." * * " We have also seen a
down-pouring of His Spirit at our evening exercise on
Sabbath nights. Immediately after public worship is
over, such crowds of people come to the manse as fill the
house and the close before the door, discovering a great
thirst after the word, and such a concern in hearing it,
that their mourning cries frequently drown my voice, so
that I am obliged to stop till they compose themselves.
Many on these occasions fall under deep and abiding con-
victions, so that I am taken up in dealing with them
some hours after the meeting is dismissed. Many here
give such evidence of a saving real work of the Spirit,
that to call it in question, would be to put old expe-
rienced Christians to doubt of their own state, yea, to
call in question the experience of the saints recorded in
Scripture. And yet there are here, as well as elsewhere,

MUTHILL. 291

ire contradicting and blaspheming— -they are objects
;y and ought to be prayed for."
n the 29th of October, Mr Hally writes, — " It
me much pleasure to hear Mr Porteous and some
j people giving such an account of the work of
jrhh you at your last sacrament. Such of my flock as
ied that solemn occasion, I hope have not lost their
I. About seven-and-twenty of them, all in a corn-
coming home, were, by a kind of Providence, over*
. on the road by Mr Porteous, Mr David and
Erekine, who, by the blessing of the Lord, were
eminently useful to them. H Such was the distress
jiy of them, that, to all appearance, they had lodged
at desert place all night, if the Lord, by means of
instruments, had not sent them some support and
, So much did their soul distress affect their bodies,
they seemed not able to travel much further. The

good work upon souls is daily advancing in this
1. Every Sabbath day since I wrote to you last,
f say, to the glory of free grace, has been a day of
Son of Man. The arrows of the Almighty King
till flying thick amongst us, and wounding the
s of his enemies. * * * For months past I
observed a general and unusual concern upon the
s congregation, their hungry attention to the word,
erious and concerned air appearing on their faces ;
* being so deeply affected in hearing, that frequently
eneral sound of weeping through the whole congre-
11 rises so high, that it much drowns my voice,
r carriage and converse in coming and going to
c ordinances, and the many prayers that are put up
tgh the parish — these make me, through the bless-
f God upon his ordinances, expect greater things.
[ told you in my last, what multitudes attend the
:ise on Sabbath evening. But now, though the day
lort, I am obliged to go to the kirk with them,
e almost the whole congregation (which is very
) wait and attend ; many not regarding the difli-

of travelling through a long dark moor under
;» A good number stay and retire to \Yte %Omk^~

292 SCOTLAND.

house, and spend some honrs in prayer ; and the Lord
has signally owned them, not only to their mutual edi-
fication, hut to the conviction of bystanders, and such as
have heard them without the walls of the house. Oar
praying societies are in a most flourishing condition.
The meetings for prayer, both among boys and girls,
give me great satisfaction. One began soon after the
sacrament. Several of them falling under deep concern, fc
I was sent for to speak to them, where I fonnd some of "i
them in tears. Since that time, that I may have them
near me, I give them a room in my house, where they
meet every night. And O, how pleasant it is to bear
the poor young lambs addressing themselves to God in
prayer! O, with what fervour, with what proper ex-
pressions do I hear them pouring out their souls to a
prayer-hearing God ! so that, standing at the back of the
door, I am often melted into tears to hear them.

" We have another praying society of young ones,
lately erected in another corner of the parish. They
desired leave to meet in the school-house, and there
about twenty meet twice a-week, though they have
some of them a good way to walk in the night. Such a
praying disposition as appears among this people, both
young and old, was never heard of before, which gives
me ground to expect more of divine influence to come
down amongst us; for where the Lord prepares the
heart, he causes his ear to hear.

" In the parish of Madery, soon after the sacrament
at Fowels, some few boys met in the fields for prayer,
and when observed were brought to an house, to whom
many others, both young and old, resorted since, and are
now, according to my information, in a flourishing con-
dition.

" This presbytery are resolved to divide themselves
into societies for prayer, for the progress of this blessed
work, and to have frequent meetings for that end.

" Yours, &c ■

" William Hally."

INDIVIDUAL EXAMPLES. 293

In a letter to a friend in Edinburgh, 29th August,
1743, Mr Hally, among other statements, says, —

" I have been filled with wonder to hear some of them
pray, who, I had reason to believe, wholly neglected
secret duty till of late. Before this good work began,
we had but two praying societies, and now they are
increased to eighteen, to which many resort, both men
and women. We have six praying meetings of young
ones. One of them meets twice a-week in my house.
I have frequently wished to have had some of the con-
tradictors and blasphemers standing with me at the back
of the door, to hear these dear young lambs pouring out
their souls to a prayer-hearing God, with such fervour,
with such copiousness and propriety of expression, that
I have not only been filled with wonder, but melted
down into tears to hear them. With great satisfaction
I admitted forty of these young ones to the communion-
table this summer, which occasion the Lord signally
owned."

In February, 1751, the same good and energetic man
writes : — " The remembrance of the glorious goings of
our God and King in his sanctuary in this place, in
1742 and 43, gives me still much pleasure, and cannot
but beget a longing to see such days of the Son of Man
again. I am fully persuaded that the gracious fruits of
that work will abide with many in this congregation to
eternal ages. I never did expect that all that were
awakened, should arrive at a real conversion. I doubt
not when the spirit of the Lord is in some extraor-
dinary way concurring with gospel ordinances for the
conversion of the elect, but others may feel of his com-
mon operations, which may evanish as a morning cloud.
About six of those persons that were the subjects of
that glorious work, are gone to partake of the rest re-
maining for the people of God. As they had a gospel
walk, so at their death they gave a noble testimony to
the truth and reality of religion. Some of them who
had been long in the dark about their state, with them
at eventide it was light, doubts and fears dispelled, and
an abundant entrance was ministered* to t\& \&*h«&1

2[H SCOTLAND*

kingdom of our Lord. There are a great many in U
and neighbouring parishes yet living, who were t
subjects of that work, to whom it has been saving, so:
as man can judge, if we judge the tree by its fruit."

" ' Godly sorrow for sin, universal hatred at it, i
nouncing their own righteousness, and embracing t
righteousness of God, by faith in Jesus Christ, embrad
him in all his offices, universal reformation of life
superlative love to the blessed Redeemer, love to
who bear his image, love towards all men, even to ei
mies, earnest desires and prayers for the conversion
all others:' — * These,' says Mr Robe, * are the haj
fruits of this blessed work, and sufficiently demonstr
that it is of the operation of the Spirit of God.'

" This may be better illustrated by one or two exa
pies of individual experience. * L. M , aged about twen
eight years, and formerly of a blameless life, was ai
kened by conversing with his brother under spirit
distress. On that night lie was so deeply affected, tl
he could not sleep. Next morning, his distress 1
increased by reading that passage of " Alleine's Alan
in which he discourseth of God's being an enemy
unconverted sinners, which passage he met with at t
first opening of the book.' Mr Robe continues—* i
was brought to me the following day, and though he 1
a very strong man, I found his mental disquiet 1
greatly affected his body. I observed tha.t his real
was clear and undisturbed, as he was able to give a <3
tinct account of himself. He was impressed with pai
cular sins, and in a lively manner felt himself to b
guilty condemned sinner. He had a deep impression
original sin and corruption, as rendering him liable
eternal wrath, even though he had not been guilty
actual sin. He had also a deep sense of the hatefuln
of sin, as committed against God, and of the sin of 1
belief, as hardening his heart against the voice of Chri
in the reading or hearing of his word. He was stra
with dreadful fears of falling into the state of tor me
and saw the great goodness and long suffering of G<
in not cutting him off in the midst of his iniquity. J

INDIVIDUAL EXAMPLES. 29-')

was supported sometimes by views of the remedy, Christ
Jesus ; that He had come into the world to save sinners,
which he desired to lay hold of, for the ground of his
hope. He soon attained to some composure of mind, in
essaying to dose with Jesus Christ/ Conversing with
L. M. again eight days after, Mr Robe writes—* He
declared that when engaged in prayer, he felt his soul
going out in the acceptance of a whole Christ as his only
Saviour ; his Prophet ' to teach him by his word and
spirit ; his Priest to reconcile him to God by his sacri-
fice ; his King to subdue his sin, sanctify, and rule him.
He disclaimed all confidence in his duties, and desired to
rely on him alone for salvation ; withal, giving himself
to the Lord to be saved, upon his own terms, to live
unto him, and to serve him in newness of life — resolving
also, in the strength of Jesus Christ, to live a holy life
to his glory, and yet not to rest on it as a ground of
peace and acceptance. He said he was greatly afraid
lest be should fall back unto sin, and be a scandal to
religion, after what God had done for him. He was
exercised with the fears of hypocrisy and presumption
in receiving Christ, against which it relieved him to
look unto Christ anew, who came to save the chief of
sinners, and who is offered to him, in common with all
others."

" L. M.," says Mr Robe, " who was, before this
blameless in his life, is now spiritual, edifying, and exem-
plary in his ordinary conversation and deportment."

One other instance may be quoted from the narrative
of Mr Robe : —

" After a sermon preached on the Monday of the sacra-
ment, by Mr Webster of Edinburgh, a young woman
was brought to Mr Robe, who found her so filled with
a sense of the love of God to her soul, and with love to
Jesus Christ, that she was all in tears, and could not
refrain from weeping with joy. She had been awakened
at Kilsyth about the beginning of July, but had obtained
no sensible relief till she heard Mr Webster. Before
her awakening, she was of a blameless life, but when
brought to feel the spirituality of God'a\aw > ^t^ w&

296 SCOTLAND.

filled with alarm on account of the coming wrath. Some-.
time after hearing Mr Webster, she was enabled to state
distinctly the consolation she experienced in taking hold
of Christ in all his offices. Her subsequent conduct in
life was of such a kind as to make it manifest that she
was now born from above."

We shall conclude this brief narrative, which exhibits
revival work as done in many parishes in the West of
Scotland, by a letter from a countryman to Mr Robe : —

" February 4,, 1743.
" Indeed the going to Kilsyth and Cambuslang has
made me to be hated by some that formerly loved me,
but I desire to bless the Lord that led me by his Spirit.
I many a time think that such days of power have not
been seen since the apostles first preached the glorious
Gospel. O Lord never let my soul forget what I did
see at Kilsyth and Cumbuslang of thy glorious power !
On Saturday night, before the Sacrament, after the ser-
mon was over, I went to the brae-heady eastward, and
looked around; the candles were burning in every place ;*
that blessed echo of prayers and sweet singing of songs
made me almost faint for joy, and lament over my dead
heart that was so lifeless ; and put me in mind of the
sweet songs that are sung in heaven at God's right hand.
On Sabbath, at his table, the Lord did manifest himself
to me as he does not to the world ; I never did think to
see so much of heaven as I was eye and ear-witness to
on this side of time. " O Lord our Lord, how excellent
is thy name in all the earth, who hast set thy glory
above the heavens ; out of the mouths of babes and suck-
lings hast thou ordained strength," &c. &c. We will
but darken the light of thy power when we speak of it.
O Lord, let that cloud that has appeared in the West of
Scotland spread east, west, north, and south, that thy
glory may fill the whole earth. O Lord, let thy hea-
venly dew come down upon our souls, that we may grow
as the willows by the water courses. O Lord, let not

* Lighted by the cottagers only for the purpose of reading the
Scriptures.

INDIVIDUAL EXAMPLES. 297

onr sins provoke thee to restrain the downpouring of
thy Spirit on these sinful lands. O Lord, for thy name-
sake, pass not by this poor parish ; and, O Lord, may
these that thou hast brought in to thyself, in a remark-
able way, evidence themselves to be thy children, by
their good works, they being the fruit of true faith and
love ; help them to forgive their enemies, and to pray
that their sins may be forgiven them. They have been
praying for the day of the Lord ; and now, because it has
not come in the way that they looked for, they are
grieved and wish it away again ; it is darkness and not
light to them. O dear sir, exhort them to beware of
carnal security, and the pride of humility, for I have
found them to be two great sins." *

" It is now nearly a century since the revivals which
hare just been related took place, but the traces still .
remain — many prayer meetings exist, and not a few of
them in Glasgow, that can date their institution from
the period referred to. The work of the Lord has been
going' on, though silently, in Scotland ever since. Many
have been the faithful pastors that have been instrumental
in gathering strayed sheep, in feeding the flock of God,
which he has purchased with his own blood."

In 1744, a concert for prayer was entered into by
clergymen and others in Glasgow, which was made known
only by private correspondence. In 1745, an account of
it was first printed in the Monthly History, and after
that the association was extended to many parts of the
kingdom. A memorial was then circulated, and the ori-
ginal concert, which had contemplated its continuance
for two years, was extended to seven. A part of Saturday
evening and Sabbath morning every week, and the first
Tuesday of each of the great divisions of the year (that is,
each quarter of the year), were the times appointed for
this exercise. The reasons and advantages of such a con-
cert are set forth in the memorial. Many years are now
past and this concert has descended through three or four
generations, without expiring, as merely human things

* Gilliet's Collections, vol. \\.

298 SCOTLAND.

ever do. It has been as the fire upon the altar of incense,
burning on and on — and has within the last year (1835)
been stirred up afresh, and fresh fuel added, by remodel-
ling the regulations, and again sending memorials to fu-
rious parts of Scotland *

Almost simultaneously with, or shortly after, the ori-
ginal arrangement for prayer amongst the clergy was en-
tered into, there were partial revivals in many parishes
in the north-east, where such things had not been seen
before. In the parish of Nig, under the ministry of Mr
Balfour, the preaching of the word had not been without
visible fruit from 1730, and in 1739, there was a more
animated concern visible, so that each day of the week,
some who had been secure before, would he coming to
state their case and make private enquiries of the way of
salvation. The general meeting for prayer, which at one
time consisted only of the members of session and a few
others, became so numerous that it was necessary to
divide it into two— at these meetings the pastor always
presided. But presently the concern so extended, that
these meetings were not sufficient, either in frequency or
capacity of receiving numbers, to satisfy longing souls, so
that ten societies sprung up who met every Saturday for
religious exercises. At all of these meetings an elder
was present, and each member, before admission, was
obliged to state his motives and desires to the minister.
There were but four families in the whole parish where
family worship was not kept up. After public worship,
neighbouring families joined in prayer, reading, and repeti-
tion of sermons, and yet care was taken that such exercises
did not interfere with private and family devotion. The re-
ligious catechisings were crowded by persons from other
parts. Neither the civil magistrate nor the kirk-session
had, for many years, any thing in the public deportment
to interfere with; and it was observed that the people
were so industrious in their secular affairs, that the labours
of the husbandman were more advanced in Nig than in

* See Dr Hamilton of Strathblane's posthumous sermon on the ad-
vantages of social worship, preached oa this account.

CONCERT OF PRAYER. 299

the neighbourhood. The people were much refreshed
with the accounts they had of the glorious work of God
elsewhere. They affectionately remembered their brethren,
both in prayer and conference, and were much afflicted on
account of the reproaches cast upon the blessed work, and
the contradiction and opposition of those from whom such
conduct would have been least expected. So far in 1 739,
and after, but in 44, after the concert of prayer was en-
tered into, Mr Balfour writes, 'the work of awakening
proceeds on new subjects more currently, with several
it appears to be more distinct and lively, than formerly.'
The mass of the people were illiterate, knowing no lan-
guage but the Irish (that is to say, Earse or Gaelic), but
that is no hinderance to their edification and instruction
in religion. I never conversed with more intelligent,
savoury, and distinctly exercised private Christians than
some illiterate men in this country, or that had more re-
spect, on a religious account, from their acquaintance.
They are industrious in learning to read, and some read
the Psalms without knowing or attending to the power
of the letters, by considering the words as complex cha-
racters, which are to be always pronounced in the same
way. Others assist them by reading the Scriptures and
other good books, which they translate currently without
any stop. This has become quite easy to those who un-
derstand both languages. It is astonishing to observe
what a copious and pertinent use of Scriptures many
illiterate persons have acquired, and with what readiness
and fluency they pray in Scripture language. The men of
letters dispute heaven, these live it. O what a sweet sig-
nificancy is in our Lord's words, " unto the poor the
Gospel is preached ! "

In January 45, Mr Balfour still continues his pleasant
tidings. " Things proceed in my parish as formerly.
New awakenings continue, and those formerly awakened
persevere, and I hope are making progress in Christian
experience,"

Mr Sutherland at Golpy writes, in May 1745, " I
often regretted to you the wretched situation of my parish
in former time*, but, since November Vast, taa \*R&\aa|

>

300 SCOTLAND.

in his wonderful mercy, granted cause of praise and
thanksgiving. From that time, upwards of sixty persons
have come to me under kindly awakenings of conscience,
many of whom have since that time been helped, so
to increase in knowledge and experience, that the work
appears to be from the Spirit of God. Sundry of them
have felt such shocking temptations, from the malicious
and spiteful enemy, that I must conclude this must be a
work destructive of Satan's interest. * * * I had a
thanksgiving day in the parish three weeks ago, on
account of this manifestation of grace ; and I began, at
their desire, a weekly lecture on Wednesday last ; and I
was told that the Lord gave countenance, by awakening
one on that day, who came not yet to me." The
parish of Golpy had formed a shelter for many refugees
in the troubles of 1688, and their posterity, at the time
of Mr Sutherland's admission in 1731, were many of
them devout and exemplary characters. But when most
of these had been called to the joy of their Lord, it seemed
that but few were awakened to fill up their places. Their
minister mourned over this, and stated to them all that
he heard of the success of the Gospel elsewhere, in the
British American colonies, and at home. Especially in
43, when he attended the General Assembly, he visited
Kilsyth, Muthill, and Cambuslang, that he might be
revived himself, and report the happy change to his
people. This, however, produced no effect. When he
lamented this to his friend Balfour, he told him that he
had seen no decided work at Nig till he had instituted
societies for prayer. Mr Sutherland forthwith assembled
the few pious of his flock, stated the matter, and divided
them into three bands, to meet on Saturday night, for the
purpose of seeking a blessing on the Sabbath ordinances.
Still they were called on to wait for a year longer, — But
when their hopes were weilnigh gone, the great and
bountiful God, who is ever faithful to his promise, was
pleased to breathe on a number of dry bones, and to visit
them with his salvation ; for, from November to August,
upwards of seventy came to him under various exercises
of soul, " Some mentioned that they had been bowed

ROGART — ROSEKEEN. 301

down under a sense of guilt for months, but for various
reasons could not take courage to open their case to him.
About forty of them have, with weeping eyes and tremb-
ling hands, received tokens for the Lord's Table at the
late solemn ordinance, and it is hoped the rest will be
encouraged to follow their example in a little time.
Even the secure multitude attend ordinances better, and
seem to listen to the word preached with greater atten-
tion than before. The greater number of the awakened
are of ages from twenty to fifty ; few below twenty, and
but four from sixty to seventy. Many of them state,
that a course of lectures on the Gospel by Matthew,
especially the conclusion that narrates the sufferings and
death, and resurrection of Christ, were the means the
Lord had blessed to their edification."

In the neighbouring parish of Rogart, in 1740, fifteen
persons were awakened ; but they, and other serious per-
sons, felt themselves in a sad state of decay of soul during
the two following years. They also observed that all •
around them continued in their former stupidity. They
then formed associations for prayer, and, at their meetings,
mourned and wept over the causes of the Lord's withdraw-
ing from their own souls, and prayed earnestly for power-
ful days of the Son of Man. In 43 and 44, there were
about fifty more awakened, who went on in a hopeful
way.

The parish of Rosekeen obtained its first Presbyterian
minister in 1717, and its first exhibition of the death of
Christ in the Last Supper was in 1721, when only seven
dwellers in the parish were amongst the communicants.
For nine or ten years after, there was a pleasant appear-
ance of good, the number of the pious increased, and
love and holiness was maintained amongst them. But from
32 to 42 things were at a stand, and a general state of
deadness seemed to overspread them, " though during
that space one and one was engaged to the Lord, and a
testimony left in the consciences of some which appeared
thereafter. From harvest 42 to 43, there came a sur-
prising revival and stir among that people; about six-
and-thirty men and women fell under a goiiwpel *tart&

302 SCOTLAND.

their salvation, and were some weeks after received into
the monthly fellowship meeting, and are since admitted
to the Lord s Table. Their minister found that the sub-
jects which the Lord had blessed for awakening them,
together with close catechising in his parish, were Hosea,
xiii. 13, " He is an unwise son, or he should not stay so
long in the place of the breaking forth of children ; " and
Gal. iv. 13, " My little children, of whom I travail again
in birth, till Christ be formed in you;" and John, ill. 8,
" Except a man be born again," &c It is hoped the
Lord has not ceased to add to the number of these, for
some are still coming to the minister to communicate the
afflicted case of their souls, and others he hears of are on
the way of coming.

" A company of children, between nine and fifteen years
of age, began in winter to meet in the house of a godly
poor widow, every Lord's day and Monday night, where
they pray, sing, and confer about what they hear in pub-
lic. They keep strict discipline, and admit none but
such as undertake to pray with them. At first, some of
the serious people of the place came over to hear without
their knowledge, who were greatly surprised and affected
with their massy sound expressions, and the savour they
found with them in prayer. And now one or other of the
serious people join often with them. They watch over
the behaviour of each other. They are constant hearers
of the Word, and examine each other about it. Their
outward deportment is grave and quiet, without any
childish levity. They are illiterate, but fond of learning."

Rosemarky also experienced a visitation in the same
blessed spring of 1744. Mr Wood, the minister, a man
of a humble and steadfast spirit, says it would ill beocme
them to despise the day of small things, or to conceal or
disown it. He had been groaning under the burden of
labouring in vain for some years before. His Christian
people had been gathering to their eternal home, and
their places were left empty. But since the communion
in the previous July 1743, the bulk of the congregation
seemed to have a desire of instruction. The winter and
spring examinations were crowded, not only by those

ROSJMARKY, 303

whose turn it was to be catechised, but by persons from
other corners of the parish. After that, about thirty
persons of different ages and sexes came to their minis-
ter, under convictions and awakenings of conscience
through the Word. Some of them, though they had not
before discovered it, had been under a gradual work of
conviction for some time. Prayer-meetings were then
established in various quarters, weekly, or once in two
weeks, and one general monthly meeting, at which the
minister attended. Many more were mentioned by
friends as in a promising state, but they had not spoken
to Mr Wood,-— it being the character of this work, that
its subjects never revealed their condition as long as they
were able to conceal it. The piercing looks, and serious
greedy desire of many of the congregation for instruc-
tion gave promising appearances that this was but the
first ripe fruit. But the Monthly History, from which
all the preceding extracts are taken, leaves the matter in
the midst. The names, however, are all written in Heaven,
and therefore we may rest satisfied, though we know no
more of them. Many other places are named as receiv-
ing divine influences at this time, but the particulars are
too brief to make it of use to note them.

Before closing this period of good things for Scotland,
it is to be observed, that this was the time when the
Wesley and Whitfield Revivals occurred in England,
which was immediately succeeded by a revival in the
Established Church there also ; so that it seems the Lord
of the harvest had his eye on our land for good, and shed
down his blessings, and gathered in his sheaves where he
would. The same exertions and the same prayers might
be expected to be followed by the same effects. Are we
then, who live at this day, at liberty to rest supine, or
are we blameless if our churches are not revived ?

[ 304 ]

CHAPTER XXL

MOULIN.

1800. We have deep cause of thanksgiving that the
Lord hath not ever left himself without witnesses in the
Church of Scotland since its reformation, hut we have
also reason to regret that there are no consecutive annals
to which reference can be made for accounts of the pro-
sperity of particular parishes. Had the Church adhered
to the useful arrangements pointed out by those who esta-
blished her order, we should not have found occasion for
this regret > If at the meetings of Synod, the clergy had
accustomed themselves to commune with each other on
the spiritual condition of their people ; if they had taken
counsel of each other in cases of souls' difficulties ; if they
had pointed out plans which they had pursued with good
effect ; if they had stirred each other up to zeal and love
in their profession ; above all, if they had prayed together
for the powerful coming of the Redeemer's kingdom in
their parishes — then we should in each Synod have found
records of the progress of the truth ; wherever there had
been an awakening we should have found it stated. But
farther. than this — ah how much more weighty ! — we should
have had more faithful and zealous ministers, and more
conscientious and watchful hearers, and more enlivened
and affectionate churches. Those who formed this regu-
lation for the Synods, which has dropped not only out of
use, but almost out of mind, were guided by their know-
ledge of human nature, and were sensible of the power of
such a practice to influence and invigorate the exertions
of the clergy, of the utility of mutual consultation, and
gathered experience, and of the refreshing effect of united
prayer, and that holy emulation which is excited by hear-
ing of the work of the Lord prospering in the hands of

MOULIN. 305

others. Shall we not see this most useful rule restored
to its authority ? Shall those who are spiritual ever he
borne down by those who are carnal ; and because some
might feel the exercise irksome, and some finding they
hare no work of the Spirit to state in their own parishes,
might cry out, of indelicacy, or boasting, or hypocrisy in
those who have — is the arm of the Lord to be concealed?
Are those who are wise to win souls to hide what he
doeth, and be ashamed of being employed as his instru-
ments ? Are they to shrink from this cross, and hide his
glory ? No, let them rather, by their humble and affec-
tionate bearing under this honour which the Lord the
Spirit alone confers, by their wisdom and prudence, by
their zeal and fortitude, awaken their sleeping fellow-
watchmen, and win not their own flocks only, but the shep-
herds of other flocks ; till all feel that they are stationed
at different points of the same fold, and the spirit of dis-
trust or criticism perish under the warmer and holier in-
fluences of the Spirit of union and love.

It may be that there are other spots in Scotland, where
in the interval between 1745 and 1800 the ministering
of the word and prayer have been accompanied by general
awakenings. But no record of the kind is within our
knowledge, and as far as appears, nearly as long a period
elapsed between the livelier times of Cambuslang and
Kilsyth and those of Moulin, as formerly between the
revival at the Kirk of Shotts and that at Cambuslang.

The parish of Moulin, in Perthshire, contained a popu-
lation of respectable industrious habits, with little know-
ledge of any description, save what their agricultural pur-
suits required ; they were most imperfectly instructed in
Divine things, and were in that condition of dead con-
tentment which accompanies a state of unreconciled
alienation from their Father in Heaven. In 1786, when
Mr Alexander Stewart was settled as their pastor, he
was like his people a stranger to vital godliness. In
most unpretending narrative of the revival which t<
place there afterwards, he mentions that he had reason
believe that there were a very few spiritually-minded per-
son in the parish when he entered it, " Wl tiaaas Yfe yftd

u

306 SCOTLAND.

hid, and they had left the world all hut one or two before
they could acknowledge me as a brother."

" While I was yet ignorant of the truth, and unac-
quainted with Christian experience, two persons, under
conviction of sin and terrors of conscience, applied to me
for advice. They supposed that one in the office of the
ministry must of course be a man of God, and skilled in
administering remedies for the diseases of the souL They
were widely mistaken in their judgment of me ; for I had
learned less of the practice than of the theory of pastoral
duty. I said something to them in the way of advice,
but it afforded them no relief. They were, however,
under the care of the good physician. He applied his
own balm to their wounded spirits, and * healed, and bade
them live.' Being progressively and effectually taught of
God, they are both now established, judicious Christians.
These are the first that appear to have been converted
since my incumbency, but they cannot he reckoned the
fruits of my ministry.

" The Lord was now preparing to gather to himself a
a fuller harvest in this place. He might have removed
me as an useless incumbrance, or rather an intervening
obstacle, out of the way, and subjected me to the doom of
the unprofitable servant ; but he was graciously pleased
to spare me, and visit me in mercy, and even to employ
me as one of his instruments in carrying on his own work.
Glory to his name who commanded light to shine out of
darkness. — The writings of pious men, which were put in
my hands by one or another Christian friend, were made
the means of bringing me acquainted with the truths of
the Gospel. Among these I may mention the works of
the Rev. John Newton and Thomas Scott, as eminently
useful to me. I was slow in receiving and embracing the
doctrines maintained by these writers. By degrees, how-
ever, I was persuaded that they were agreeable to Scrip-
ture, and that no doubt they must be admitted as true."
" The biographical sketches in the Evangelical Maga-
zine were principal means of impressing my heart, of
opening my eyes to perceive the truth, of exciting a love
to godliness, and a desire after usefulness. The power of

MOULIN. 307

Divine grace appeared illustrious in the composure, the
triumph, with which many pious Christians left the world.
I saw their triumphant hope supported, not by a compla-
cent reflection on a well-spent life, but by a confidence in
the unmerited love of Christ, and in his power and willing-
ness to save even the chief of sinners. I was particularly
struck with the account of ministers who had laboured
with much diligence and success, and had died at an early
period of life, full of good fruits; while I, who had already
lived longer, and been longer in the ministry than they,
could not say that I had taken any pains with my people,
nor that I had been the means of reclaiming one sinner
from the error of his way, or of saving one soul from
death. The conversation and example of some persons
of a truly spiritual mind, to whose acquaintance I was
admitted, and who exhibited to my view what I found
only described in written memoirs, conduced much to
impress on my mind the truths with which I was gra-
dually becoming more acquainted. I cannot omit men-
tioning, in this connexion, the blessing I enjoyed in the
preaching, the prayers, and the conversation, of that much
favoured servant of Christ, the Rev. Charles Simeon, of
King's College, Cambridge. He was a man sent from
God to me, was my guest for two days in June 1 796,
preached in my church, and left a savour of the things of
God, which has remained with us ever since.

" From that time, I began to teach and preach Jesus
Christ, with some degree of knowledge and confidence.
From August 1797 to January 1798, 1 preached a course
of sermons on the fundamental doctrines of Christianity.
" The novelty of the matter, and some change in my
manner of preaching, excited attention. People began to
think more, and sometimes to talk together, of religious
subjects, and of the sermons they heard. But I did not
yet know of any deep or lasting impressions having been
made. The two persons before mentioned as earliest
converted, had by this time got clearer views of the Gos-
pel, were enabled to derive comfort from the word of sale
vation, and began to bear their testimony to the grace of
God their Saviour. They were in use of xi&ftvc^ qrr^-

308 SCOTLAND.

sionally a poor infirm woman, who had long walked with
God, and who now lived alone in a mean cottage in the
neighbouring village. It was proposed that they should
come together to her house at a time appointed, and that
I and some of my family should join them, and spend an
evening hour or two in reading, conversation and prayer.
In process of time, different persons who were enquiring
after the one thing needful, hearing how we were em-
ployed, and believing that God was with us, were at their
own request admitted of our party. In this poor woman's
little smoky hovel, we continued to hold our weekly meet-
ings, to August 1 799> when she was called away to join
the general assembly of the first born above. Her growth
in grace had been very conspicuous, and her death was
triumphant.

" In summer 1798, the Lord's supper was dispensed
in our congregation, at the usual time of the year. For
some weeks before, I endeavoured in preaching to explain
more fully, and with more application to the conscience,
the nature of the ordinance ; and the character of those
who, under the denomination of disciples, were com-
manded to keep it. The exhortations and warnings then
given, appeared to be accompanied with a divine blessing.
Some of the ordinary communicants, judging themselves
to be in an unconverted state, kept back, of their own
accord, from partaking of the sacrament. Others, after
conversing with me privately on the subject, took the
same resolution. Many of those who might otherwise
have applied for admission, forbore to apply. I inferred
this from the comparatively small number of persons ap-
plying. For some years before, the number of candidates
for admission each summer amounted to thirty, forty, and
sometimes near fifty. In summer 1798, there were not
above twelve ; of whom nine were admitted. The sacra-
ment was dispensed the same year again in November,
on which occasion there were only six more new commu-
nicants admitted.

" Although the number of communicants was thus for
the time diminished, yet the number of those who were
brought under concern about their eternal interests was

MOULIN. 309

increasing. This concern showed itself chiefly among
the younger people under twenty- live or thirty. Their
knowledge was yet imperfect. A natural shyness often
hindered them long from discovering to others what they
thought or felt. They had as yet no friend or intimate
whom they judged able, from experience, to understand
their situation, or to give them counsel. Some of them
began to visit one of the two earlier converts formerly
mentioned, from whose reading and conversation they
derived considerable benefit. By means of this common
friend, they were brought more acquainted with each
other* One might now observe at church, after divine
service, two or three small groups forming themselves
round our few more advanced believers, and withdrawing
from the crowd into the adjacent fields, to exchange
Christian salutations, and hold Christian converse to-
gether; while a little cousin, or other young relative,
followed as a silent attendant on the party, and listened
earnestly to their religious discourse.

" As the sacrament of the Lord's Supper had been
much abused, by admitting, without strict examination or
special instruction, all candidates who could give a toler-
able answer to common questions, and who were free from
grosser immoralities ; so it must be confessed, that the
sacrament of baptism had been still more profaned.
Nothing but one kind of scandal was understood to pre-
clude a man from admission to this ordinance. Gross
ignorance, or immoral behaviour, only laid a man open to
some admonition or reproof; or at most laid him under
the necessity of procuring another sponsor ; but hardly
ever hindered the baptism of his child. Nothing subjects
a, man to greater disgrace and obloquy among us, than to
have his child remain unbaptized. The dominion of cus-
tom in this matter is so despotic, that most parents would
choose rather to carry their children a hundred miles to
be baptized by a Popish priest, than be refused baptism
when they demand it. The superstitious notions, and
other abuses attending our celebration of this sacrament,
called loudly for reformation. Last year, I preached a
abort course of sermons on baptism* At tY& «txa& tka**v

310 SCOTLAND.

agreeably to a recent resolution and recommendation of
the Presbytery to which I belong, I revived the laws of
the church which had fallen into disuse, relative to this
ordinance, particularly that which prohibits private bap-
tism. Acts of Assembly, 1690, X. Whenever I baptize
a child on a week-day, whether in the church or else-
where, I give previous intimation of sermon, and after
preaching I administer the ordinance in the presence of
the congregation. By these means many have been
brought to understand better the nature of this sacrament,
and to attend to it with more reverence. It had been
long customary for the parent to give an entertainment,
according to his station, to his neighbours and connec-
tions, immediately after the baptism; by which means
this sacred ordinance, instead of being regarded as a most
solemn religious service, had degenerated into an occasion
of carnal mirth and festivity. The more religiously dis-
posed amongst us have set the example of discontinuing
this practice.

" The following month, March 1799, 1 began a course
of practical sermons on Regeneration, which I continued
to the beginning of July following. These were attend-
ed with a more general awakening than had yet appeared
among us. Seldom a week passed in which we did not
see or hear of one, two, or three persons, brought under
deep concern about their souls, accompanied with strong
convictions of sin, and earnest enquiry after a Saviour.
It was a great advantage to these that there were others
on the road before them ; for they were seldom at a loss
now to find an acquaintance to whom they could freely
communicate their anxious thoughts. The house of
one of our most established Christians became the
chief resort of all who wished to spend an hour in read-
ing or conversing about spiritual subjects. Some who
had but newly begun to entertain serious thoughts about
religion, and who had not yet come so far as to speak
out their mind, would contrive an errand to this person's
house, and listen to her talk. She was visited at other
times by those who were drawn only by curiosity or a
disputatious spirit, who wanted to cavil at her words, or

MUTHILL. 311

draw her into controversy. Such visitors she did not
avoid, and at last they ceased to trouble her.

" Other experienced Christians among us have been
extremely useful to their younger brethren or sisters.
Their conversation and example have been principal
means of turning the attention of the young to religion,
and of edifying those who have been already awakened.
Such persons I find most serviceable auxiliaries. . If they
be neither prophets, nor apostles, nor teachers, yet their
usefulness in the church entitles them to the appellation
oi t helps y 1 Cor. xii. 28. Nor do I think an apostle
would hesitate to acknowledge them, both men and
women, in the relation of fellow-labourers, Phil. iv. 3.
Nor has success in this divine work been confined to in-
struments raised up among ourselves. The same happy
effects have, in a certain measure, attended the preach-
ing, the prayers, or conversation of pious brethren, who
have assisted at the celebration of the Lord's supper, or
made us other occasional visits.

" It is observable that the work of conversion has been
begun and carried on among this people in a quiet man-
ner, without any confusion, and without those ungovern-
able agitations of mind, or convulsions of the body, or
shrieking, or fainting, which have often accompanied a ge-
neral awakening in other places. One young woman was
so much moved in church, in March 1799, that she wept
bitterly, and her friends thought it prudent to convey her
out a little before the congregation was dismissed. She
was for five or six days unfit for going about her usual
work. In June following, at the time of our sacrament,
she felt emotions of joy, for a few days, to such a degree
as to withdraw her regard, in a great measure, from sen-
sible objects. Spiritual affections were unusually strong
in her, and spiritual objects appeared visible and near ; but
her sentiments were quite correct and scriptural. A few
days afterwards, when her emotions had subsided, she told
me that she was at the time sensible that her mind was
somewhat unsettled, but that she found comfort in recol-
lecting the apostle's words, 'If we are beside ourselves, it
is to God.' This was exactly her case. She continues a^f

312 SCOTLAND.

humble lively Christian, and, except these two short in-
tervals, she has regularly performed her ordinary work,
as a maid-servant, to the satisfaction of her master and
mistress, in whose service she still remains. Another
woman, the mother of a family, in April last, was so
much moved in hearing sermon, that of her own accord
she left the church. Excepting these. two instances, I
know of none whose emotions under the preaching of
the word discovered themselves in any other manner
than by silent tears.

" Having lately made an enumeration of those of our
congregation, whom, to the best of my judgment, I trust
I can reckon truly enlightened with the saving know-
ledge of Christ, I find their number about seventy.
The greater part of these are under thirty years of age.
Several are above forty ; six or seven above fifty ; one
fifty -six ; and one above seventy. Of children under
twelve or fourteen, there are a good many who seem to
have a liking to religion ; but we find it difficult to form
a decided opinion of their case. Of persons who have
died within these twelve months, three we are persuaded,
and we hope two or three others, have slept in Jesus.**

In the Memoir of Dr Stewart published, in 1822, his
biographer has furnished us in his private letters with
more of the utterance of the heart than he had deemed it
right to pour out in his narrative. From these we make
a few selections, premising that they are addressed to the
ReV. Mr Black, at that time a pastor in Edinburgh, though
at the time of their first intimacy he was settled in St
Madoes. " Mr Stewart always referred to a conversation
with his friend at St Madoes, as connected with the com-
mencement of his spiritual life. Mr Black, as they sat
together in an arbour in the garden, took occasion to de-
scribe the triumphant dying scene of a deceased sister.
Such a fact was not to be accounted for on Mr Stewart's
principles; and the event made an impression on his
mind, never afterwards wholly effaced."

Many years after this incident he writes — " The dear
name of Mr Black is always associated with my first per-
ceptions of divine truth and redeeming love. My thoughts

MOULIN. 313

took a long flight backwards, and the parlour and the gar-
den of St Madoes appeared to me like an upper chamber
in Jerusalem, and like the garden of Gethsemane."*

To this beloved friend and estimable man his heart
turned in its fulness, when he had not only emerged from
the twilight into the noonday of Gospel light himself,
but when he saw his people flying like clouds, and flock-
ing as doves to their windows, to that gracious Redeemer,
of whom they were both erewhile so ignorant.

" TO MR BLACK.

" Moulin, Oct. 20, 1800.

" O my dear brother, had you but been with us for a
week past how your heart would have rejoiced ! Such
hungering and thirsting after communion with God !
Such genuine humility and contrition for sin ! Such
devotedness to the Saviour ! Old converts quickened,
and new ones added to the Lord ! Yesterday was, I
trust, a great day of the Son of Man. I almost felt my
own nerves, rigid as they are, touched, and my sympathy
(my admiration, I am sure) excited, in various private
conversations which I had during the week. Glenbri-
achan, which I visited on Tuesday, I found blossom-
ing like the rose. I had observed, for some months past,
a kind of concern, a kind of * voluntary humility ' appear-
ing among them, rather bordering on ostentation ; but
now their expressions of concern and humiliation are
fewer, more unaffected, and seem to come ' more directly
from the heart.' "

Afterwards he writes — k< O for the pen of a ready
writer, to tell of the Lord's abundant goodness ! One
lad in the parish of Blair, whom I visited a few days ago,
and who seems to have walked with God for many years,
appears to be going home, bearing ample testimony to
the grace of God his Saviour. Several called here yes-
terday, hungering and thirsting as much as ever. Widow
M. entered joyfully into her rest. But what chiefly

* Life of Stewart, p. 42.

314 SCOTLAND.

engages our praise at present, is the case of Robert R— ,
tenant in Glenbriachan (still a favoured spot). His wife
was among the first fruits in the glens, and now the hus-
band, laid on a sick-bed, has been visited with the joy of
salvation, and proclaims the freeness and fulness of divine
grace. It is a singular sight to see his wife, with the
near prospect of widowhood, and a family of small chil-
dren, his two sisters, brother-in-law, &c, all rejoicing by
his bedside. Mrs B. or you, I am sure, will not faS to
make our dear brethren partakers of our joy."

" The day Mr preached, I succeeded him, and

gave briefly in Gselic the substance of his discourse,
which had been a long one. He staid here on Monday.
That day he and I took a walk to see John C , men-
tioned by my sister in her last letter to Mrs Black. This
man had been brought a few weeks ago to a clear and
comfortable knowledge of the Gospel, chiefly by means of
a young woman whom he had hired for the five weeks of
harvest, on purpose to enjoy her religious company.
About a month ago his wife was in great bodily distress,
but it was a season of love to her soul. She was en-
lightened with the knowledge of her Saviour, and enabled

to trust and rejoice in him. Margaret K , the young

woman whose conversation had been blessed to the hus-
band, was their constant attendent. The wife has been
much distressed since her illness, and her recovery, very

doubtful. Mr and I found her in a very weak state,

but both she and her husband were quite resigned and
cheerful. Unfortunately, neither of them can speak a

word of English, so that Mr had* no conversation

with them, but he was much delighted with the man's
animated and heavenly countenance. * * * I have
had calls from two young women, who spent one or two
half-years in service in this parish. They were in that
time awakened, I trust effectually, and pretty well in-
structed in the truth. At Martinmas they quitted their
service, and returned to their native parish of Blair-
Athole, where they live in the same village, and are
mutual aids and comforts to each other. They read and

MOULIN. 315

converse much together, and not seldom bear their testi-
mony against the profanity of swearers and Sabbath -
breakers in their Tillage. Their unusual manners and
sentiments draw upon them many taunts, and on the
Moulin people, among whom they learned such odd
notions ; but they have been enabled to abide steadfast,
and I hope humble.

" Such things having now, by the peculiar blessing of
God, and his abounding grace, become pretty frequent,
are much talked of. They have excited the attention and
wonder of many, and the diversion and hatred of some,
just as might have been expected. I hear of few scoffers
among ourselves, where the behaviour of our young con-
verts is seen and known ; but I hear they are the subjects
of much obloquy in the neighbouring parishes, where, on
account of the distance, there is more room for misrepre-
senting their sentiments and conduct, and where they are
grossly misrepresented. Hitherto/ the Lord has watched
over them most tenderly, so that I have not heard of one
who has fallen off, or brought a stain on his profession.
On the contrary, those who live nearest to this place, and
whom I know best, appear evidently to be growing in
grace and knowledge. We have many enquirers after the
truth, who are yet but exploring their way, and some
who, from opposing and reprobating its doctrines, are
brought to listen to them with acquiescence, at least, if

not with a desire to learn. S is attended every

day, and almost all hours, by persons of every description.

She and a tradesman in this village, W. W and

Margaret K , are my principal ' helps,' 1st Cor. xii.

28. Expositors would be at no loss to understand that
term, if they were a few weeks among us. What a trea-
sure has been distributed among us ! and in what frail
earthen vessels I Truly the excellency of the power is
of God, and not of us. O that our hearts were more
enlarged, and our tongues more ready, and our voices
more tuned to praise Him who hath made the day spring
from on high to visit us ! But how dry ! how barren !
I used to give little credit to the complaints of good men,
such as Mr Newton, when lamenting their toiA o& \ss^

316 SCOTLAND.

and their indisposition to labour ; but now I give them
full credit. I am sure they said no more than they must
have felt, and I dare say they felt no more than was
real/' *

" When the news of those things had spread abroad, it
excited an uncommon interest among all those who loved
Zion's prosperity. Good men and good ministers could
hardly be satisfied, without repairing to the scene. After
a visit of Mr Black to Moulin, he wrote thus in his diary:
— ' My visit to Moulin was particularly gratifying. Such
a revival I never witnessed before. It is truly the doing
of the Lord, and marvellous in our eyes. Much as I had
heard of it before, it far exceeded expectation. I preached
on Matt. xxii. 42 ; the congregation attentive, and some
of them much affected. Had a great deal of conversation
in private with those under religious concern, and consi-
derably under the influence of doubts and fears. They
spoke feelingly of the hardness of their hearts, and of
their indisposedness for every thing that is good. At the
same time their hearts seemed to be much alive to God.
They have a keen appetite for the Word of God, and an
evident love for the Saviour, though they will not allow
it themselves. A deep sense of their own unworthiness,
and a strong affection for one another, are the most pro-
minent features of their character. Some are more ad-
vanced, and greatly enlightened in the knowledge of
divine truth. These serve as guides to the rest, and are
made exceedingly useful by their example and conversa-
tion.

" Dear Mr Stewart himself is mercifully preserved
.humble amidst all the honour that God is conferring upon
him. O may the good shepherd watch over him, and the
flock committed to his charge ! And may the divine in-
fluence be spread abroad throughout all our congregations,
that every where there may be a shaking among the dry
bones, and that a great harvest of souls may be gathered
to the Saviour.' f

" As an instance of his kindly affection to those around

* Life of Stewart, p. 161. f Ibid. p. 163.

MOULIN, 317

him, it may be mentioned, that at the honr of evening
worship, a bell rang to give notice to the bordering vil-
lagers of the evening sacrifice, when as many as were
disengaged and willing-hearted repaired to the place, and
in the kitchen, or, in fine weather, before the door, lis-
tened to the opening up of some passage of Scripture,
and joined in prayer and praise. His attention to the
cases of the newly awakened was unremitting ; and if
some trial, or some unlooked-for mercy exercised the
hearts of his more established converts, their minister
took a lively interest in the dispensation.*

" What a fine picture Mr Stewart draws in some of his
letters, when, after an occasional absence, on drawing near
to the habitations of his beloved people, now one, and
now another, on discovering his approach, hastened to
salute him, and to welcome his return ! And how interest-
ing must those Sabbaths have been, in which the Son of
Man showed his power, and sent forth the Gospel invita-
tion with an influence of grace which the called could not
resist ! No wonder that many resorted to such a highly
favoured spot, and that many were anxious to procure
for their own congregations the benefit of Mr S. s occa-
sional ministrations."

We return to the conclusion of Mr Stewart's published
narrative for a few interesting particulars of the general
state of the parish : —

" The external effects of a general concern about
religion, have appeared in the behaviour even of those
who do not seem to have experienced a change of heart.
While the younger people attended a Sabbath school,
those who were grown up used to spend the evening of
that day in sauntering about the fields and woods in gos-
siping parties, or visiting their acquaintance at a distance,
without improving their time by any profitable exercise.
Now there is hardly a lounger to be seen ; nor any per-
son walking abroad, except going to some house or meet-
ing where he may hear the Scriptures read. Swearing,

* Life of Stewart, p. 167.

318 SCOTLAND.

profane talking, foolish and indecent jesting, have in a
great measure ceased. At late wakes, where people
assemble to watch by the body of a deceased neighbour,
the whole night used to be spent in childish noisy sports
and pastimes. Even the apartment where the corpse lay
was the scene of their revelry. This unnatural custom,
which is still pretty general over a great part of the
Highlands, is almost wholly discontinued in this part of
the country. They still assemble on such occasions, but
they pass the time in reading the Bible or some religious
book, and in sober conversation.

" In reply to your request of relating a few of the more
remarkable cases of conversion which have occurred
among this people, I must say that I have little uncom-
mon to communicate. I have mentioned already that
almost all our converts have been brought to serious
concern and enquiry in a quiet, gradual manner. To
an intelligent observer, the change in the conversation,
temper, deportment, and the very countenance of indivi-
duals, is striking ; the change, too, on the general aspect
of the manners of the people is conspicuous. The effect
is thus, on the whole, obvious ; yet there are few parti-
culars in the case of each person, which, taken singly,
will appear uncommon, or worthy of being detailed in a
separate narrative. We have no instances of persons re-
markable for profligacy of manners or profaneness of
speech, who have been reclaimed from such enormities ;
because there was none of that description to be found in
our society. The change has been from ignorance and
indifference, and disrelish of divine things, to knowledge,
and concern, and spiritual enjoyment. Neither are there
among us examples of persons suddenly struck and im-
pressed by some alarming event, or singular interposition
of Providence. The word of truth proclaimed in public,
or spoken in private, has been almost the only outward
mean of producing conviction of sin, and confidence in
the Saviour. In every single case, the power of God is
visible in the effect produced ; but there is little i diversity
of operation.' Instead of endeavouring to paint the

MOULIN. ' 319

beauties of holiness in the scene around me, I rather wish
to prevail with you and other friends, who know how to
enjoy such a spectacle, to * come and see.'

" I have thus, my dear sir, endeavoured to give a con-
cise view of the prosperous state of religion in this con-
gregation for the last two or three years. We still have
the happiness to find, from week to week, that the same
concern and awakening is spreading around, and extend-
ing to some neighbouring congregations. Within these
few weeks persons from six and seven miles' distance
have called here on a Sabbath morning, under evident
concern about their souls. On a succeeding Sabbath, the
same persons have called again, introducing a relation or
fellow-servant, under similar concern. All of these, so
far as can be judged from present appearances, are in
a hopeful way. Such is the manifold grace and loving-
kindness with which it has pleased the Lord to visit this
corner of his vineyard. I trust that all our Christian
brethren, who may receive the joyful intelligence, will
join us in praying, that God may continue to water, with
showers of blessings, ( this vine which his own right
hand hath planted ; ' and that no boar from the wood
may be allowed to waste it, nor worm at the root to
smite it that it wither."

In the year 1805 the Providence of God removed Mr
Stewart from Moulin to take charge of the parish of
Dingwall. The blow was a severe one to himself and
his people, but Christian submission to the Divine
appointment was a grace which they were called upon to
exercise, and they were strengthened in the hour of
need. By his change of scene, his labours were much
increased, while his emoluments remained the same, — so
that even gainsayers were put to silence as to the purity
of his motives.

He writes, " Now that the time of my departure is
almost at hand, you will be anxious to know how it fares
with us. There is really much composure and quiet
acquiescence that prevail. Some weeks ago I used to
only make distant allusions to the situation in which we
stood. Of late I have thought proper to s^s»k <& m a

320 ' SCOTLAND.

situation more explicitly, and make the mention of it
somewhat familiar to our ears, so as to be able to think
and talk of it without overpowering emotion. Our
evening readings are crowded. The people seem to
swallow the word greedily, considering that their time
may be short."

It is an affecting fact that the patron of Moulin, who
condescended not to take counsel, however modestly pro-
posed by Mr Stewart, and considered not the desires of
the people, presented a preacher not according to their
wishes, and the well-conditioned flock who were gathered
round the faithful pastor, fell off to find pasture where
best they might — so that the good work at Moulin has
melted away, and its church has returned to the stillness
of an altar forsaken by its priest, where the sacrifice is
chilled and the fire expiring. O, when will men be wise,
and Scotland awake to know where her strength and
safety lie !

[' mi 3

CHAPTER XXII.

ISLE OF ARRAN.

1804— BUT ESPECIALLY 1812 AMD 1813.

r B are indebted to No. V. of the Glasgow Revival
ts for the only account of this Revival we have ob-
>d, which probably is the only one in print. It is
shed by the Rev. Angus M'Millan, successor of the
rable Mr M' Bride, in the parish of Kilmorie, Isle of
n. We give the narrative part of the tract without
ition or omission.

Unity years ago, the state of religion in this island
exceedingly low. * Darkness covered the land, and
i darkness the people.' But, through the tender
y of God, the day-spring from on high visited it.
ne light arose on them that sat in darkness, and the
» of Christ has gained much ground in this part of
ineyard, since the year 1804. In that year, and the
following, many were awakened at the north end of
sland, especially about the farms of Sannox and their
abourhood. And although this awakening, as to its
jr and progress, was not of long continuance, yet a
iderable number of the subjects of it testified, by their
lives and conversation, that they had undergone a
Ious change. This day of small things was the com-
3ement of the revival which followed. From this
, a change for the better might be observed in the
ious sentiments and conduct of many among the
•le. Many seemed now to be awakened from the
iber of spiritual death ; being disposed to attend to
things which belonged to their everlasting peace.
ir eyes were now opened to see the evil of their for- j
wicked ways, their perishing condition as sinners, I
their need of Christ as a Saviour. They now began
to distinguish between truth and error \ to TeC^H

322 SCOTLAND.

evangelical doctrine; to attend with diligence on the
means of grace ; and, in general, to set up the worship of
God, morning and evening, in their families. Religious
meetings were also set up in many places ; and, in the
course of a few years, a kind of reformation was thus
visible throughout many parts of the island. This was
the case more especially, though not exclusively, in the
parish of Kilmorie, which was at this time favoured with
the ministry of the late pious and laborious Mr M* Bride.
It may be remarked, respecting his usual style of preaching,
that he was by no means what might be called an alarm-
ing preacher, but rather the opposite. His sermons were
frequently close and searching ; but he dwelt more on the
consolations of the Gospel than on the terrors of the law ;
and the excitement seemed to be, in general, greater
under the sermons in which the riches of divine grace
and the consolations of the Gospel were exhibited, than
under such as were more awful, and apparently better
fitted to awaken. Mr M'Bride's manner of preaching
was very much distinguished for seriousness, fervour, and
great zeal for the salvation of sinners ; and this often led
him to make very close appeals to the conscience. But
the revival itself was not of a sudden. It was gradual,
and spread from one place to another. Neither was it
in all cases saving as to its effects. Many under it
assumed a form of godliness, who were altogether desti-
tute of its power. In other cases, however, there was
something more deep and precious — even the quickening,
saving, and soul-transforming influence of the Holy Spirit.
During its progress, a considerable number were accord-
ingly brought under deep convictions of their guilt and
unworthiness as sinners, of their liability to eternal
misery, and of their utter helplessness as concerned them-
selves. Now, they began in earnest to say, * What shall
we do to be saved?' — and to count all things but loss
for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus — for
an interest in him. And the God of all grace who thus
visited them with the awakening influences of his Spirit,
was pleased also to enlighten their minds as to the way of
salvation ; and thus to lead them, by faith, for peace and

ISLE OF ARRAN. 323

rest to the only Saviour of sinners. And being thus
quickened, enlightened, and comforted, by the teaching of
tne same Spirit, they were also united together in the
bonds of love and Christian fellowship, while they tra-
velled together Zionward.

" Thesubjects of these spiritual influences were, however,
only as a little flock, when compared with the multitude
who remained yet stout-hearted and far from righteous-
new* And these, becoming impatient under the re-
straints which the late Reformation had laid upon them,
with regard to unholy practices, began to break out anew
with greater violence ; so that, in 1810 and 181 1, many
were bolder in sin, and more abandoned to wickedness,
than they had been at any former period. The enemy
of souls now came in as a flood, and threatened to carry
all before him. It is right, however, to observe that this
was in no respect true of professors, or of such as there
was reason to believe had been the subjects of divine
grace. These were for the most part remarkably consis-
tent in their walk and conversation. The breaking out
of sin here referred to, was among the bulk of the people
who made no particular profession of religion, — and espe-
cially among the young, who had been brought under
temporary restraint.

" These circumstances, however, affected the tender-
hearted, and stirred up the pious zeal of Mr M'Bride,
and led him to be even more earnest in his warnings and
remonstrances from the pulpit and otherwise against
abounding iniquity. The little flock of tender-hearted
Christians scattered throughout his parish, were, at the
same time, moved with a sense of the prevalence of sin
and the desolations of Zion. They felt an increased con-
cern for the conversion and salvation of sinners, and a
deeper interest in the prosperity and enlargement of the
kingdom of Christ. They began to be more frequent and
earnest in their supplications at a throne of grace for a .
time of revival — of refreshing from the presence of the |
Lord. Several little parties of them, by mutual consent,
set apart some days for private fasting and prayer, send--
ing up their united supplications to the Hft«wx o&^ra^qH

324 SCOTLAND.

for the downpouring of the Spirit, in his awakening and
converting influences on sinners around them. They
kept several such days for nearly a twelvemonth before
the commencement of what is generally called, ' The
Revival of Religion in Arran.' In these devotional ex-
ercises, some of them enjoyed uncommon nearness to
God, and great freedom at a throne of grace, when pour-
ing out their hearts in earnest supplication for the mani-
festation of divine power and glory in the sanctuary, es-
pecially in the congregation with which they were them-
selves connected. Their minds were much stirred up to
press after these things in secret, — and at their fellowship
meetings, and also when attending public ordinances.
They seemed to be animated by the spirit of him who
said, < For Zion's sake I will not hold my peace, and for
Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until the righteousness
thereof go forth as brightness, and the salvation thereof
as a lamp that bnrneth.'

" While this little flock of Christ, and their pastor at
their head, were thus engaged, and about the beginning
of March 1812, the Lord began to work in an unusual
way among them, in a way of which they had not till
this time any expectation, and which, accordingly, caused
some surprise. It was at this time that the outcrying
commenced, which was afterwards so common for a con-
siderable time. It began at first in some private meet-
ings, but afterwards extended to the public assembly
under Mr M< Bride's ministry. What made the thing the
more remarkable was, that it made its first appearance
among the people of God, Yea, the most tender, humble,
and spiritual-minded among them were the first affected
in this manner, and it continued for a short time among
them only. But the influence which appeared first moving
on them, in this unusual way, was soon extended to
others ; and the next subjects of it were those who had been
before seriously disposed, or who bad been at one time or
other under serious impressions. But soon after it was
extended to the gay and thoughtless, the moral, and the
openly wicked. Persons of almost every description and
age, from nine years or under, to that of sixty or upwards,

ISLE OF ARRAN. '325

were affected ; but the number of old people was small
compared with that of the young. The crying at first —
and while confined to the people of God, was attended
with very little bodily agitation ; but after others were
affected, it was generally attended with these — such as
panting, trembling, and other convulsive appearances.

" The writer of these pages did not reside in Arran
till about six months after the commencement of this re-
vival ; but he enquired particularly concerning the begin-
ning of it, from such as were best able to inform him,
and is satisfied, in his own mind, that the Spirit of the
Lord was at work in preparing for it — that his mighty
power was revealed in the commencement of it — and that
he had a gracious and merciful design in ordering the
circumstances of it. Although this revival did in some
measure degenerate latterly, through the weakness and
folly of men, yet the beginning of it was truly the doing of
the Lord, and marvellous in our eyes. Some, who were
among the first affected, told the writer, that they had not
the most remote idea of crying out before they were con-
strained to do so. So much was this the case, that they
said they could not have refrained, even if they had been
threatened with instant death. They added, that their
outcryings and bodily agitations arose entirely from the
Mate of tkeir minds, when powerfully impressed and af-
fected with a sense of divine truth. But it is proper to
observe, that the writer is here speaking only of such as
were lively exercised Christians previous to this revival.
On examining others, who knew nothing of Christian
experience before the beginning of this work, he found
that the first impressions of many of them were accom-
panied with deep convictions of sin, with a painful sense
of their helplessness and misery as sinners, and also with
earnest desires after an interest in Christ ; which it is to
be hoped many of them attained. But it must be ac-
knowledged, that the accounts given by all were not alike
satisfactory. Many were deeply affected externally, who
could give little account of the matter. Their affections
were moved, but convictions of sin did not take any deep
hold on their hearts and consciences, an&&o\ta&t wn&sk^

326 SCOTLAND.

ing soon passed away ; at least, it was so with some. But
if there be joy in heaven over even one sinner that re-
penteth, we have reason to think that there must have
been much joy, in that world of light and love, over many
that were brought to true repentance, in this place, du-
ring the progress of that work.

" About the beginning of 1812, the awakening became
general, and continued to make progress about three
months. After this, it seemed to be at a stand, till the
beginning of the following December, when it again re-
vived, and continued to spread considerably for about
three months more; during which period it extended
over a great part of the parish of Kilmorie, which is
nearly thirty miles long, and it extended also to some
parts of the parish of Kilbride. The writer cannot pre-
tend to give the exact number of the subjects of this
awakening ; but the number, from first to last, was very
considerable. It must have amounted to two or three
hundred persons, old and young taken together. He
may state them at two hundred and fifty ; which is rather
below than above the real number. But he does not
mean to insinuate that the whole of these proved true
believers. This will appear from the statements already
made.

" For some months after the commencement of the
awakening, the subjects of it manifested an uncommon
thirst after the means of grace. Both old and young
flocked in multitudes to hear the word of God. His
house, and the place employed for private meetings, were
frequently so crowded, that the people, as it were, trod
one on another. To travel ten or fifteen miles to hear
sermon, was considered as a very small matter ; and after
sermon was over, it was no uncommon thing for many of
them to meet together in private houses, or in barns, and to
spend several hours in religious exercises. Some of them
spent even whole nights in this way. They also longed for
the return of the Sabbath. They rejoiced when it was said
unto them, * Let us go into the house of the Lord/ They
eagerly sought after renewed opportunities of receiving
spiritual instruction. Their desire wa& so great as not to

ISLE OF ARRAN. 327

be easily satisfied. In our religious assemblies, at this time,
some might be seen filled with divine love, others with
fear ; some rejoicing in hope of the glory of God, and
others trembling lest they should come short of it ; some
crying out in accents of praise, and others indicating, by
their cries, their dread of everlasting wrath. At this time,
our meetings were frequent and well attended : and al-
most every sermon seemed to be effective in awakening,
quickening, or refreshing. Satan and his agents, indeed,
made strong efforts to counteract the designs and opera-
tions of the Spirit of God, by throwing all manner of
stuuiblingblocks in the way of his people ; but, notwith-
standing all the opposition of earth and hell, the word of
the Lord grew and multiplied. Some who were lively
Christians before, enjoyed at this time much of the re-
freshing influences of the Spirit, and were often filled, in
an extraordinary measure, with peace and joy in believing.
As illustrative of this, I may mention, that, in the spring
of 1813, I was catechising one day at a particular farm,
in the district of , and when speaking of the cha-
racter of Christ as the Redeemer of God's elect, and at-
tempting to describe the precious ness of his blood, and the
riches of his grace, an excellent Christian, who is now in the
world of spirits, cried out, in an elevated tone of voice, * O
the infinite virtue of the blood of Christ — the preciousness
of his blood ! What am I, what am I, that he should ever
spend one thought concerning me! O my nothingness, my
nothingness, my nothingness!' And, soon after, she ex-
claimed, * I shall soon be with thee — I shall soon be with
thee — be for ever with thee, Lord! ' I have seen others, also,
on various occasions, affected much in the same way. And
these ecstacies of spiritual joy, among the people of God,
were generally accompanied with great humility and ten-
derness of spirit. Instead of being puffed up, they were,
on the contrary, bowed down to the very dust, under a
sense of their privileges. When the glory of the King
of Zion was manifested to their souls, in the light of the
Sprit, they were ready to exclaim, with Job, < Wherefore
I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.' I have
heard others, under awakenings of conscience^ crj <rcX %

328 SCOTLAND.

< O what shall we do? what shall we do? Wash as
from sin ; let us not deceive ourselves, for we cannot
deceive thee/ It was pleasing thus to see many of them
really afraid of self-deception, and earnest in their enquiries
after the only sure foundation, the only hope set before
them in the gospel.

" In the spring of 1 813, this awakening, however, began
to decline, and ceased very soon after ; but those who were
truly Christians, continued to enjoy, both in secret du-
ties and at public ordinances, renewed and manifest tokens
of the divine presence and favour. This was especially
the case on sacramental occasions ; at which they were
favoured with the assistance of some of the most pious
ministers of the day. Most of these having now departed
this life, I am enabled to name the greater part of them,
without making any reference to the living. The late
Rev. Messrs Bayne of Greenock, and Robertson of Kin-
gussie, formerly of the chapel at Rothsay, assisted here
constantly for many years. The late Rev. Dr Love of
Anderston assisted here occasionally, about the time of
the revival; and the late Rev. Mr M'Kenzie of Gorbals,
formerly of the Gaelic Chapel, Duke Street, Glasgow,
assisted also occasionally, but chiefly before the com-
mencement of this work. These, along with the late Mr
M* Bride himself, were considered, and I believe justly,
among the most pious ministers of their day : but they
have ceased from their labours, and their works do follow
them. The more regular or occasional labours of these
men were often blessed as seasons of refreshing from the
presence of the Lord. It is doubtless true, that, as the
awakening declined, some of those who appeared at one
time much affected, and much engaged in religious pur-
suits, began to grow cold and remiss in spiritual duties,
to fall into divers temptations, and to slide back into con-
formity with the world. Like the stony-ground hearers,
the religious impressions of many were slight and tran-
sitory — their convictions were not of a spiritual or abiding
nature ; and, having no root in their hearts, they soon

k withered away, without bringing forward any fruit to per-
fection. But although many did thus turn, as the dog to

ISLE OF ARRAN. 329

his vomit, and soon got rid of their religious impressions,
a considerable number of the subjects of this work con-
tinue, to the present day, bringing forth fruit meet for
repentance, and manifesting their faith by their works.
It is due, however, to acknowledge, that, even in respect
of the best of us, the zeal, fervour, and liveliness, mani-
fest during the time of our revival, have suffered some
decay ; and that, instead of these, coldness, deadness, and
formality in religion, are now too prevalent among us.
We have, therefore, much need to be earnest in our sup-
plications for another season of refreshing from the pre-
sence of the Lord — to pray, with the devout Psalmist—
* Turn us, O God of our salvation, and cause thine anger
toward us to cease. — Wilt thou not revive us again, that
thy people may rejoice in thee ? Show us thy mercy, O
Lord, and grant us thy salvation/

" As some enquiries have been made respecting the
bodily agitation and outcrying which were observable
during our revival, I may now state, that these did not
ahoays accompany cases of conversion. There are some
among the subjects of that work, whom I consider serious
Christians, who, as far as I know, never cried out ; but
such cases were rare, after the excitement had fully set
in among us. The outcrying also ceased, with the greater
number, after a certain period, but not with the whole ;
for there are a few who still continue to be occasionally
affected in the same way, though not to the same height
as formerly. Then, as to the opinions of the people them-
selves, I am not aware that there are any of the truly
pious in this place, who consider bodily excitement as
necessary to a gracious operation of the Spirit ; but there
is no doubt that some lay too much stress on powerful
bodily feelings ; and they are thus very ready to conclude,
that the Spirit of the Lord is at work when such effects
are produced. Still I do not think that any hold such
effects to be necessary to true conversion, or that there
can be no saving change without them. And they have
at least seen and heard much to convince them how erro-
neous such an opinion would be."

The influence of this revival was fell m oifihst <& ^a

330 SCOTLAND.

western islands, and we had occasion in another part of
the work to refer to its effects in the isle of Bute. Hav-
ing conversed with those who have recently passed sum-
mer weeks in the isle of Arran, it is very comforting to
learn from them that the savour of its blessed days has
not yet, at the end of twenty-three years, expired. Some
aged people still live to tell of what the Lord did for their
souls at that happy time ; and the descendants of others
are made partakers of like precious faith. One peculiar
habit of the inhabitants of this island took its rise at the
period of the revival, and exists to this day. When the
fishermen are out in their boats, and have set their nets
for the night, they engage in the duty of family worship
with as much regularity and composure as they do when
on shore. How consoling to the wife and daughters at
home, to know that the husband and brothers have com-
mitted themselves to the keeping of Him who holds the
waters in the hollow of his hand. How sweet the har-
mony when the strain of praise and thanksgiving mingles
with the music of the billows that have tossed themselves
from the far Atlantic, and the scream of the sea-bird who
has made her home upon the waves. Not only does
Kedar's wilderness lift up her lovely voice, but the wil-
dernesses of old ocean send up their strains of joy to God.
O when shall all the world become the kingdoms of our
God and of his Christ ! How many acts of rebellion have
been the sins of the sea ! How many whom the Ruler of
the waves has carried in safety to their desired haven,
have blasphemed His holy name in their precarious dwel-
ling places ! But the time is hastening, when not only the
poor fishermen of Arran, but all the men who do business
on the mighty waters, shall send up their hearts in prayer
to the God of all the Promises.

4

C 331 ]

CHAPTER XXIII.

REVIVAL IN BREADALBANE, IN 1816 AND 1817.

The following account of the revival on Loch Tay-
ide is extracted from the Life of William M 'Gavin of
jrlasgow, the justly celebrated author of " The Protes-
ant." He narrates that which he himself witnessed.
The character which he gives of the style of preaching
»f John M'Donald of Urqnhart is most just and striking,
rhe effect of his preaching in Glenlyon is similar to the
efiults that have followed it in many a Highland glen,
rhere we have heard of persons travelling seventy miles,
ttracted by the power of the Spirit which accompanies
tis words. Even the remote and lonely St Kilda has,
brough his zealous instrumentality, been made to "stretch
ut her hands to God." His name and influence recur
ontinually when awakenings in the Highlands and Islands
re the theme ; but without his own authority, and with-
ut evidences of the abiding effects of those great emo-
ions which have very generally accompanied his toilsome
ibours on many a mountain side far from his own flock,
; were imprudent, and perhaps presuming, to give any
etails. Let us hope that great as his exertions are, his
nergy still enables him to keep memoranda of the strik-
ig occurrences which follow his preaching, and that the
burch will one day be refreshed by the detail of what
lie spirit has wrought by him.

" SlR, " Glasgow, 1st Jan. 1818.

" I presume most of your readers have heard of the
,te revival of religion in Breadalbane, and some other
arts of the Highlands of Scotland. As information <kl
lis subject must be interesting to evety onfc y*>a& tess^fc

332 SCOTLAND.

the prosperity of the Redeemer's kingdom, and as it was
my lot, in company with a few friends, to visit some of
those parts in September, and again in December last, I
shall, without farther preface, proceed to relate such par-
ticulars as I was informed of on the spot, and what came
under my own observation.

" This revival began just a year before my visit in Sep-
tember, at the dispensation of the Lord's Supper at
Ardionick, on Loch Tay-side, and chiefly under tbe
preaching of the Rev. Mr M'Donald of Urquhart. Ar-
dionick is a missionary station, supported by the royal
bounty, or by the Society for promoting Christian Know-
ledge,- in connexion with the Church of Scotland. It is
on the south side of the loch, about half way between
Killin and Kenmore. There is no chapel here ; but a
tent, constructed of a few rough boards, serves to shelter
the minister while preaching, and the congregation stand
exposed in all weathers on the side of a hill.

" Here, at the above mentioned period, a great number
of people had assembled to hear the word, many of whom
had come from a distance. The preaching of Mr M 'Donald
was accompanied by a power such as they, had never wit-
nessed before. The whole congregation seemed affected
by a singular movement. I suppose it was something
like what the prophet saw in vision, — a shaking among
the dry bones in the valley. The first impression was a
deep conviction of sin in the minds of many, accompa-
nied by an earnest enquiry about the way of escape from
the wrath to come. Some indeed were agitated by strong
emotion when thus awakened to a sense of their guilt
and danger ; and it is not doubted that several were led
by the Holy Spirit to embrace Christ as the Saviour of
their own souls. The impression of that day was car-
ried in many a bosom to distant parts of the country, and
into remote glens, in which, perhaps, the sound of salva-
tion had never before been heard.

" The Rev. Mr Findlater, the minister on this sta-
tion, has his residence at Ardionick, and the tent is close
by his house ; but he preaches also on the opposite side
of the loch, where there is a *ma\Y dra^ol, called Lawer*s

BREADALBANE. 333

Kirk. We had a letter of introduction to this gentle-
man, but regret we did not find him at home, as he would
no doubt have communicated many interesting particulars.
We had some conversation, however, with a very intelli-
gent servant, who told us they had * a great day' there
the week before. It was the time of dispensing the
Lord's Supper, and it might have been called the anni-
versary of the first revival. Mr M'Donald had preached ;
and many, chiefly among the young, seemed to be seriously
impressed. The congregation was estimated at between
eight and nine thousand, who were all able to hear the
preacher's voice. The place could contain ten times that
number ; and it is not easy to say how many might be
able to hear in such a situation ; for I was convinced, by
subsequent experience, that it is easy to speak so as to
make people hear upon the rising side of a mountain.

" About four milt^s east on the same side of the loch,
there is a tent erected for preaching by ministers or mis-
sionaries of the Tabernacle connexion.

" Mr Findiater preaches, I believe, every second Sab-
bath at Lawer's Kirk, on the north side of the loch. In-
deed, this and Ardionick may be considered tbe same sta-
tion, the kirk being on one side of the loch, and the manse
on the other ; and such is his zeal and diligence, that
sometimes after having preached twice on one side of the
loch on Lord's days, he goes over to the other side and
preaches in the evening. The awakening has been chiefly
among people on the north side ; and Lawer's Kirk, as
might be expected, is well attended. To this place the
Glenlyon people resort, coming round the bottom of
Benlawers, a distance of fifteen or twenty miles, and some
a great deal farther ; and besides travelling thus far, they
must ferry across the loch, which is here about a mile
wide, when the preaching is at the tent. The country is
very populous on both sides of the loch, notwithstanding
the late emigrations ; and I believe there are as many
people on the north side alone as would fill five such
houses as Lawer's Kirk.

" There is an Independent church in Aberfeldy, the
pastor of which has laboured much, and been very %u&-

334 SCOTLAND.

cessful in preaching the gospel in Glenlyon. We took
up our quarters for a few nights at Weem, or Taybridge
Inn, as it is now called, which is about a mile from Aber-
feldy, where we found ourselves as comfortable as we
would have been in any inn in the kingdom. We got
ourselves introduced to Mr Kennedy, the pastor of the
church in the above village, who was kind enough to
offer to accompany us to Glenlyon on the following day.
" When we came to Fortingale, which is a kirk town
near the opening of the glen, we met an old man on
horseback, with whom our companion was acquainted.
Three of his children, we were told, had lately been the
subjects of a gracious change. The old man himself
seemed very desirous of hearing the word ; and taking us
for ministers, he said he hoped we were going to the
glen to preach. Indeed he begged that we would, and said
we might depend upon collecting a few, though most
of the people were at the hill working with their peats.
All the male part of our company were indeed stated or
occasional preachers ; and the writer was chosen to do
duty on the present occasion. We rode five or six
miles farther to Invervar, which was as far as a carriage
could well go. This place is by the side of a wood, in
which Mr K. sometimes preaches on winter evenings, by
lights suspended from the trees. This gentleman had
left word at a few cottages as we passed that there was
to be sermon, and also made it known at the houses
which compose the small village. It was. true most of
the people were at work on the hill, but in a short time
about forty persons were collected ; and, to our great
surprise, the old man whom we met at Fortingale had
rode two or three miles farther down the country, had
done his business, and was back at Invervar before the
worship commenced. After the discourse in English,
Mr K. gave the substance of it in Gaelic, chiefly for the
sake of the old people, who understood little English ;
for those of middle age, as one of them told me, under-
stood me pretty well. During the whole time they heard
with grave attention ; but I could not help observing the
difference when Mr K. began to speak in Gaelic. Every

BREADALBANE. 335

tyre beamed with intelligence and interest ; and the very
children, who had been comparatively listless before, were
all alive the moment they heard the sound of their own
dear language of the mountains. I never spoke in a
more interesting and melting situation. The gloomy
grandeur of the surrounding mountains — the rich verdure
of the valleys — the winding of a copious stream — the
numerous patches of corn waiting the sickle, and the
multitude of sheep on the hills, suggested the subject of
discourse, which was the last five verses of the 65th
Psalm, and which I endeavoured to improve, by directing
the attention of the people to the abundance of spiritual
blessings exhibited to sinners by the gospel. When I
saw the lively attention with which they listened to the
words of eternal life, and heard the rude fervour of their
music, I thought of the accomplishment of the prophet's
prayer, — * Let the inhabitants of the rock sing ; let them
shout from the top of the mountains.'

" The appearance of the people indicated a state of
great poverty. They suffered much from the failure of
the crops in 1816; and it is worthy of remark, that it
was at the very time when this calamity overtook them,
that the Lord was pleased in so remarkable a manner to
visit them with the blessings of his gospel. Glenlyon,
like Loch Tay-side, is very populous. It is richer, in
point of soil and verdure, than most Highland glens.
We passed many fields of oats and barley nearly ripe, and
some in the process of cutting down. The people are, of
course, more dependent upon the weather than mere
graziers, or those who inhabit more barren spots. Their
ordinary fare is potatoes and milk, and they sell what
grain they raise for the purpose of paying rent, buying
clothes, and other necessaries. Having little grain the
preceding year, and losing even a great part of their
potato crop, they must have been reduced to great dis-
tress ; but amidst their deep poverty, the Lord was
pleased to visit them with the riches of his mercy. When
I visited the same place in December, I was happy to
find that all their crops had been safely got in. The
valley is well sheltered and warm ; and the ^ew&. w

336 SCOTLAND.

sooner ripe than in many extensive districts of the low

countries.

******

" The character of those who appear to be under the
influence of the truth (and there are many such) is that
of affectionate earnestness with regard to their eternal
interests. So far as I could learn, there is not one, of
whose conversion there was satisfactory evidence, who
has fallen from his profession, or done dishonour to the
cause of truth. A visible change has taken place in the
temper and conduct of great numbers. As an instance,
there is a man who was so quarrelsome, and so noted a
fighter, that he was called the Lion of Glenlyon. He is
now as quiet as a lamb : and an acquaintance whom we met
with at Aberfeldy, told us that she had seen him a few days
before, driving along in his peat-cart reading the Bible.

" Highland fairs used to be scenes of revelling and
wickedness ; at least I used to find them so in other
places. It happened to be the fair-day when we arrived
at Kenmore ; and most of the people there must have
been from Loch Tay-side, Glenlyon, and the neighbour-
ing glens. Among the hundreds, nay, I may say the
thousands whom we saw there and met on the road going
home, there was only one who showed symptoms of in-
toxication, The inn was full of people transacting busi-
ness and taking refreshment. A number of tents were
erected for selling liquor. Many may have taken too
much, but the above was the only instance of having
drank to excess which came under our observation ; and
we mixed familiarly with the people, and entered into
conversation with many of them. Dancing had begun at
the inn, but it continued only for a few minutes, and the
musician sat idle in the lobby the remainder of the even-
ing-. One of the ladies of our company gave him a few
tracts and some good advice to comfort him for his want
of employment, but I am not sure that he was satisfied
with the result of the day's business. The crowd retired
by degrees, and by nine o'clock there was scarcely a ves-
tige of the fair to be seen.

" It is one pleasing feature of this revival, that it is in a

BREADALBANE. 337

great measure free from the extravagance which is said
to have accompanied a revival in some other places.
When the work began indeed under the preaching of Mr
M'Donald, it was attended by something of a similar
nature. Some were under violent agitation when first
awakened to a sense of their guilt and danger ; and I am
far from saying this is either extravagant or unnatural.
There was, however, so little of this, as scarcely to be
remembered. It was, in general, rather a silent melting
under the" preaching of the word; and those who did
appear under violent agitation at first, never exhibited
such symptoms after they believed and received the com-
forts of the gospel. I made particular enquiry, but did
not hear of one instance of periodical or mechanical agi-
tation, or any sort of indecorous behaviour during divine
worship, by those who made a credible profession of the
faith. It is not uncommon indeed to see a large congre-
gation melted into tears. This is not only consistent
with a sober reception of the truth, but it may be con-
sidered as a pleasing accompaniment of the tenderness
and ardour of first love ; and such has been the effect
upon the preacher himself, that he has had to stop and
weep with them.

" As Mr M'Donald has been honoured by the great
head of the Church to be eminently useful, we were at
some pains to ascertain the peculiar character of his
preaching. His strain is evangelical, and his peculiar
excellence is said to be that of bringing home the word
of God to the hearts and consciences of his hearers. He
shows them to themselves ; he turns their hearts inside
out ; he makes them see that they are ruined, perishing
sinners, and exhibits the finished work of Christ as the
only ground of hope to the guilty. This is the kind of
preaching which God has honoured, and will always
honour as the means of bringing sinners to himself.

** The origin of this work may, however, be traced to
a period somewhat more remote than the preaching of
this gentleman. There was, as usual, a dawn before the
morning — a few drops before the shower of blessing.
There was a Mr Farquharson, who ^te*&\&& W* &*?«&>

338 SCOTLAND.

twelve or fifteen years ago. He was supported by the
Society for Propagating the Gospel at home ; and after
having laboured some time in Breadalbane, he went to
America, where he died. His labours were blessed to a
few, most of whom are still alive, and who have been
helpful to the more recent converts, by the instruction
which they have been enabled to communicate.

" I cannot allow myself to forget the gentleman who
accompanied us to Glenlyon, who, if he had no part in
the work at its commencement, has been eminently use-
ful in helping it forward. He possesses more of the
spirit of a missionary than any man I ever knew. His
labours in Glenlyon are abundant, and they have been
wonderfully successful. On our return from the glen,
we met several young persons whom he introduced to us
as his children, and whose countenances showed the affec-
tion with which they regarded him. It is not easy to
conceive the privations he must have suffered while
labouring among the poor people. At one time he staid
among them three weeks, preaching once or oftener
every day ; and such was their eagerness to hear him,
that he could scarcely get leave to return to his family
and charge.

" Glenlyon, which occupies about one-third of the
parish of Fortingale, is twenty-eight miles in length. The
plain at the bottom is very narrow, and some of the high-
est mountains in the kingdom rise on both sides of it.
Several villages are so embosomed on the north side of
the hills, that the sun does not rise on them for three
months in the year. There being no carriage road
through the whole glen, it has not been much visited by
strangers, but I think it must now become interesting to
Christian travellers. Here they will find much to gra-
tify a taste for the sublime and beautiful, and they will
be delighted to witness the influence of the gospel on the
minds of the formerly rude inhabitants/' *

We have heard of another account of the revival of
Glenlyon, as the Breadalbane country is commonly called,

* From the Memoir, of the late YT\Ulwa M' Gavin, p. 285.

BREADALBANE. 339

but have not been able to obtain it. The report of the
present condition of that populous strath is not encou-
raging, though in perfect conformity with the experience
of those who are conversant with revivals. It is said
that some zealous Christians, who were attracted to the
interesting spot, were so ill advised as to introduce a con-
troversial subject. Perhaps it was the baptismal contro-
versy. But, whatever it was, from the hour that atten-
tion was withdrawn from the condition of their own souls,
and occupied with controversy, the converting influ-
ence was arrested, meltings of heart ceased, and no new
souls were won in Glenlyon. It is matter of humble
gratitude that the old ones continue consistent and faith-
ful, honouring their profession as becometh saints. But
may this impediment to the progress of the Spirit's work
act as a caution to zealous Christians of all denominations
to adhere in their dealings with new converts to the
great points that touch salvation, lest they have to an-
swer for the loss of souls !

[ *40 ]

CHAPTER XXIV.

ISLE OF SKYE.

This is the largest island of the Hebrides, and in point
of produce and population is the most important of the
western group. It contains seven parishes, including the
small isles of Rassay and Scalpa, and, besides its paro-
chial clergy, has four missionaries, and two government
chapels, together with several catechists and Gaelic-school
teachers.

It is not easy to ascertain the date at which this dis-
trict professed to accept the doctrines of the Reformation;
nor is it of consequence, for the profession was the re-
verse of an enlightened acceptation of truth, leaving the
poor people under the influence of a fearful mixture of
Druidical, Papistical, and Protestant notions. Like other
rude and remote districts, they believed in witches, ghosts,
fairies, the efficacy of an evil eye, and ill-wishes. They
paid a small fine for the benefit of the poor on being
rebuked for particular sins ; and this was so much re-
garded in the light of purchasing an indulgence, or doing
a penance, that the omission to make this satisfaction
was deemed a greater scandal than the sin itself. Fune-
rals were conducted with great riot jand excess, much
ardent spirits being consumed before lifting the dead body ;
and meat and drink, to such an extent as frequently to
impoverish the survivors or keep them in debt for life,
carried with the remains to the burying-ground, where a
feast was made — in the church, if the minister was so
generous as to grant it, he himself often mingling in the
excess — bagpipes played, songs sung, filthy tales and
jests recounted, pieces of meat flung amongst the attend-
ant children, to make a scramble for the diversion of
their seniors, till riot increasing to fury, clansmen ar-

ISLE OF SKYE. 341

ranged themselves against neighbour clans ; fighting,
bloodshed, and sometimes even death was the conse-
quence. Before closing the grave, a cross was marked
upon the coffin, to insure the spiritual safety of the dead.
Whatever had been his life of profanity or lewdness,
after death it was the custom to say of him, " He is
well ; " and the more decency and decorum were outra-
ged at his funeral, the more was he honoured.

It is unprofitable to enter into a more particular de-
scription of the state of things then. Whatever corrupt
nature, aided by gross ignorance and sustained by false
precepts, could devise of evil and abomination, was prac-
tised ; and the crowning point of all was, that the minis-
ters were truly blind leading the blind, and wallowing in
the ditch together with the people. The profanation of
ordinances was awful. It was customary to proclaim all
the business of the week — such as sales, fairs, &c. at the
church-door, and to finish bargains there. At the sacra-
mental occasions, which often occurred only after inter-
vals of three years, the tents of pedlars and spirit-dealers
were pitched all around the churchyard, and a busy mar-
ket of all sorts of wares carried on during the week-days ;
which market was confined to an immense sale of ardent
spirits on the Sabbath. Even elders were to be seen
carrying about the sacred elements with inflamed coun-
tenances, and sometimes with unsteady steps ; and, so
far as is believed, not one family on the island kept up
family-worship.

As a specimen of the doctrines taught, it may be men-
tioned that two ministers once went in company to visit
* dying man, whose conscience was awakened, and he
told them in great alarm he was mightily afraid he was
going to hell. His guides told him they knew him from
his youth, and saw nothing in his life deserving hell ; nay,
there were many good things in him, and done by him,
that (besides God's mercy) would obtain heaven for him;
and if he went to hell, many had cause to fear. The
dying man replied, with a deep sigh, " Is there no word
of Christ? Is there no word of Christ ?"

As far as can be ascertained) in l$Q5, VWfe \9«tOos&»

342 SCOTLAND.

two persons within the whole bounds of the presbytery
of Skye, who might be counted upon as enlightened
Christians, having embraced the truth in the love of it.
One, a young lady who had profited by the ministry of
Mr M'Kenzie during a visit to Lochcarron ; the other,
a teacher who brought religious impressions from his
favoured native county of Ross. He was the instrument
of putting down the practice of swearing in Rassay,
where he taught. But both these lights in the surround-
ing gloom were extinguished by death in 1806. The
year before their death, however, Mr Farquharson, an
Independent, itinerated in the country ; and one who had
cause to bless the Lord for his messenger, says, " I heard
this worthy man four times. I believe his discourses
were accompanied with divine power. From this date I
got new views of Scripture myself, and of the practices
of the inhabitants of the island. I think it probable that
other two or three came under conviction by means of
Mr Farquharson's preaching.'* This man was catechist
in the parish of Portree at this time ; and ^before the end
of the year, two or three additional persons were by his
means brought under conviction. At this time there
was hot one Gaelic Bible in the parish, and but two or
three copies of the New Testament. At the same time,
a man who came from Sutherland stirred up seven others
in the parish of Snizort to hold a monthly prayer-meet-
ind. This new thing appeared singular and odious in
the eyes of the people. Curiosity attracted many. Two
of its members made remarks on passages of Scripture,
which excited a few to prayer, and to abstain from gross
sin. In 1806, the rare and important occurrence took
place of the change of views in one of the pastors. The
Rev. D M , minister of Kilmuir, became a sub-
ject of converting grace. After having been for many
years in darkness, like Saul, he straightway preached
Christ, whom in ignorance he had persecuted. He che-
rished the despised members of the prayer- meeting, and
presently several of his own congregation began to study
a part of the New Testament, which was found with a
oian who did not use it. It Teqpax3& \swt «a amplication

ISLE OF SKYE. 343

to the British and Foreign Bible Society, which he made,
to fill the hands of these hungering' souls with the whole
word of God. At length Mr M was called to an-
other charge. He did what he could for the new con-
verts in Snizort, who desired the sincere milk of the
word, by providing two pious catechists, one of whom
was also schoolmaster. The other was the first man who
was brought to serious reflection under Mr Farquharson's
preaching, who often assembled the infirm and those at a
distance from the parish church, and expounded the
Scriptures to them. Good accompanied this, and his
reading of the practical works of Boston, Baxter, Bun-
yan, Willison, and Edwards, so that many were brought
Under powerful convictions of conscience, and were made
to feel deeply their need of God's mercy in Christ. Their
meetings were not confined to the Sabbath ; and persons
of discernment, who were occasionally attracted to them
from the mainland, declare that they have heard poor and
illiterate men guided to speak with a discrimination and
force of truth, and with a spirituality of conception,
scarcely to be credited, even by spiritual persons.

"In 1812, by means of these meetings, an uncommon
-awakening took place among the people, which was at-
tended with trembling and distress of body, and some
■were even constrained to cry out. These emotions were
like summer showers, which move about, when the rain
falls on one field without a drop on another. They were
-here to-day, and in another place to-morrow. Some
-persons came under convictions when attending the meet-
ings — others when they came in contact with awakened
(persons who attended them. The leaders of the meet-
ings were made deeply sensible of their own insufficiency,
and felt that their strength could only come from God.
This led them to cry to God day and night for his gra-
cious presence and support ; and with gratitude they had
to acknowledge, that at sundry times they were furnished
with strength, which enabled them to testify of Him in
public: and often they felt much life and refreshment
communicated to them by the reading of a chapter with-
out note or comment. These were days of ^ovm «sA^&

1 »

344 SCOTLAND*

sweetness to as many as had spiritual taste and discern-'
raent, — so that, when they met, they were reluctant to
part. Very little sleep was sufficient to serve them.
They were much devoted to prayer, public and private.
' Verily,' says one, « there was here then such power
with the word of God as can scarcely be believed by
Christians who did not witness it, or feel it experimen-
tally/

" Although these meetings and emotions commenced
in Kilmuir, they extended to Snizort. * * * - *

" During the space of six months, a considerable num-
ber, who before were ignorant and careless, were awaken-
ed. Yet offences ensued, because of two reasons : First,
because many of those who were awakened apostatized
and went back to their former ways; second, because
there were some among those who were awakened who
became fanatical in the proper sense of the term. They
pretended to dreams and visions, and to have received
a spirit of penetration, which enabled them to foretell
who should be saved, and who not. *****

" We are not to affirm whence it was, whether from a
right spirit or a spirit of delusion ; but we have reason to
believe that most of it was from the latter, because of the
apostasy of some, and the divination of others. Probably
some men, from this conclusion, may be apt to infer that
the whole was from the wicked spirit ; but that was not
the case, as we believe, from the following reasons, viz.

" I. Because such as had been in some measure en-
lightened and quickened before these emotions commen-
ced experienced themselves refreshed, enlivened, and
benefited in attending to the means of grace at the
meetings.

" II. Because some of those who were awakened at
the time have continued steadfast and sincere, maintaining
a life and conversation becoming their Christian pro-
fession.

" III. Because many of those awakened at that time,
though they have not attained to firm assurance, seem to
have the law of the Lord in their hearts. They desire
the way of the gospel. Some of this description, after

ISLE OF SKYE. 345

having lived in fears and uncertainty as to their salva-
tion for twelve or thirteen years, departed this life in
sweet serenity of mind, and in a blessed hope, relying
wholly on Christ and on his propitiation.

" These reasons, then, prove sufficiently that those
persons who attribute these [latter] operations and awa-
kenings to the wicked spirit are awfully mistaken. * *

" There can be little doubt but these operations were
in consequence of a downpouring of the Holy Spirit." f

The persons on whose minds salutary impressions were
made belonged to the parishes of Kilmuir and Snizort.
The late excellent Mr Shaw had by that time become
minister of the parish of Bracadale, and his instructions
were what these persons delighted to hear ; but distance
debarred many from frequently enjoying that privilege.
In consequence of having no minister within reach
who edified them, they were obliged often to meet
in the fields. About 1817, a gentleman who had a small
tract of land in the parish of Snizort, divided it into
crofts, or small tenements, which were rented by several
serious persons, who were attracted thither from the pa-
rish of Kilmuir. There they were permitted to build a
house for meeting, which will contain about two hundred
persons. It is honourable to the minister of this parish,
that he has never joined in the intolerant spirit which in
so many cases has led to the persecution of those who
were conscientiously concerned in holding such meet-
ings. These persons are attached to the Church of
Scotland, and have never separated from it. They have
other two or three meetings in farm-houses, which are all
conducted on the same plan ; two or three of confess-
edly superior knowledge and experience presiding al-
ternately. The meetings are not confined to the Sabbath,
but are held also during the week. These faithful per-
sons are not without their portion of trial, in their diffi-
culty of obtaining ordinances. In many cases baptism is
withheld from them ; and, indeed, were it not so, they
might not feel at liberty to receive the ordinance from
the hand of every man who might be willing to bestow

f Account of State of Religion in the HX^Aanfa, ^ ^«

346 SCOTLAND.

it ; neither could they with a good conscience mingle
themselves at the table of the Lord with the openly un-
christian and profane. ' The position in which these poor
Christian people are thus placed is most affecting, and
perhaps without example in any other church. Surely
the hearer of prayer will soon have pity on his children,
and bestow upon them the sincere milk of the word, which
they long for.

When Mr Shaw was placed in charge of the parish of
Bracadale, 1812, he proved himself a zealous and labo-
rious pastor. An arm of the sea dividing the parish, he
obtained Gaelic-school teachers, who, by means of their
exemplary lives, and pious instructions, have been en-
abled to work a striking general improvement in the
morals of the people, especially in the district of Mingi-
nish. Many have become devout and intelligent Chris-
tians.

Mr Shaw confessed himself not to possess nerve
enough to stand forth against evils which he could not
expect to remedy, and thus yielded to administering or-
dinances to some contrary to the light of his conscience.
On this account the good man had many inward con-
flicts, which impaired his health, and hastened his death.
He said himself, with regard to the deplorable ignorance
of many of the inhabitants, that they ought to be viewed
and treated as the heathen, to whom missionaries are
sent to teach and to christianize them. Yet he baptized
children of parents who never sought the ordinance of
the Supper, and whose lives evinced how much they were
the children of this world. His excellent successor, the
Rev. Roderick M'Leod (whose induction to Bracadale
was hailed by all the pious), has manifested a commen-
dable zeal, though we do not know if it has often been
accompanied with success, by labouring to promote true
and undented religion amongst his people, and by oppo-
sing wickedness of every kind. He has denied church
privileges to irreligious and ignorant persons, and for this
he has suffered persecution in various forms, which it
may console him to know has excited the brotherly sym-
p&thy of thousands who never saw his face. Would that

istE or skye. 347

those most active in this case would consider how " they
have made the heart of the righteous sad, whom God has
not made sad ; and strengthened the hands of the wicked,
that he should not return from his wicked way,." *

There are now two, if not three small Baptist con-
gregations in Skye, whose members exhibit a conver*
sation according to their profession ; and there are a
number of serious people in* the district of Vaternish,
in the parish of Durnish, who were first awakened to
a sense of divine things by the instruction and example
of the Gaelic-school teachers. It is a woful truth, that
some pastors in Skye have discouraged and discounte-
nanced the Gaelic Society's teachers ; and two parishes,
where they have not been admitted, and where no awa-
kening has taken place, are in general as ignurant and
superstitious as was the whole island in 1805. The
bagpipe may still be heard at their funerals ; drinking
and fighting still disgrace the hours of mourning ; and,
in March, 1827, the interment even of a lady was dis-
graced by a fight in the parish of Sleate.

It is a pleasing evidence of the influence of the gospel,
which has been reiterated a thousand times, though some
men's eyes are still closed against it, that wherever the
truth has found entrance, these barbarous and abominable
customs have been banished, and quietness, sympathy,
and purity of manners have occupied their place.

There has not, as far as appears, any religious awaken-
ing, in the revival form, occurred in the counties of Ross,
Sutherland, Caithness, Nairn, or Inverness ; and yet all
who are well informed, agree in the fact that true religion
prospers in a regular and consistent progress more in the
above counties than in any part of the Church of Scot-
land. Ministers from these districts never fail to mention
" speaking to the question" as one of their most success-
ful means of grace. The meaning of this unusual phrase
is but obscurely apprehended in the Lowlands. And
having found a very accurate description of it in a pam-
phlet, entitled " An account of the present state of

• Ezek.xiii.aS.

348 SCOTLAND*

religion in the Highlands of Scotland," published in 1827,
we give it a place here.

It is to this pamphlet that we owe the little account of
the revival in Skye. The writer is speaking of the
practice in Ross-shire, but the description applies to the
other counties also.

" On the first Monday of every month a meeting is
held in the parish church for prayer, and what is called
in the north, ' speaking to the question ; ' which practice
is also attended to on sacramental and other occasions."

The Friday which occurs between the Fast-day pre-
vious to the communion and the preparation day, is, in
the north, called the examination day ; and on that day
they exercise themselves in speaking to the question.

" The congregation assembles as on other days. After
prayer and praise, the minister who presides enquires if
any in the assembly has * a word of a question 9 (the
Gaelic idiom) respecting which he would like to hear
some of the brethren present give their opinion. One or
other generally rises and gives out a passage of Scripture,
such as the following : * Except a man be born again,'
&c, or ' Blessed are the poor in spirit/ &c, or * To be
spiritually minded is life and peace.' Supposing that he
gave out the first of these texts, he would add, < I am
desirous to hear the opinion of the brethren on the nature
of the new birth, and the marks of it ?' Or should he
give out the second of these texts, he would add, * I
should wish to hear the nature and marks of true poverty
of spirit?' The question being thus propounded, the
minister who presides gives a brief exposition of the
text, in order to lay it open to those who may be called
upon to speak. He then calls, by name, upon some well-
known and experienced Christian to rise and speak to
the question. Very frequently it is not without a good
deal of pressing that he prevails on some one to do this.
Often half-a-dozen of persons or more in succession speak
to the question proposed. The minister presiding reca-
pitulates the substance of what has been brought forward
by the various speakers ; and should any of them have
stated any thing which he conceives to be not according

SPEAKING TO THE QUESTION. 349

to sound doctrine, he points it out and corrects it. The
person who propounded the question is generally called
upon to conclude with prayer, — and after singing of
Psalms, the congregation retires. People in the Low-
lands can hardly believe what immense multitudes as-
semble together in the north on the preaching days con-
nected with the dispensation of the Lord's Supper ; and
on no day, excepting the communion day, do more per-
sons assemble, than on the Friday on which the question
is spoken to. It is not uncommon in parishes in Ross-shire,
which may not contain a population of more than two or
three thousand souls, to witness a congregation of ten,
twelve, or even fifteen thousand present on a sacramental
occasion. The services in Gaelic are therefore necessarily
carried on in the open air, while those in English are
held in the church/ 1 *

The pastoral occupations of the people enable them to
secure time for this their greatest luxury. " On such
occasions catechists, elders, and private Christians, who
are noted for their piety and talents, from parishes far and
near, in Ross, Sutherland, and Caithness, often meet to-
gether. Meetings for prayer and religious exercises are
held every evening during the preaching days in every
part of the parish. On Friday, when the question is to
be spoken to, the catechist, and sometimes an elder,
stand beside the tent where the presiding minister is
stationed, to tell him what distinguished Christians from
other parishes they know to be present, in order that he
may call upon them to speak.

" It is most refreshing and instructive to listen to the
varied experience, the ready utterance, the clear illustra-
tions, the correct modes of thinking, and the striking
similies of many of these speakers, some of whom, though
they may never have learned to read, prove themselves
mighty in the Scriptures, and well acquainted with the
human heart in all its windings. * * * The * speak-
ing to the question ' has many beneficial effects ; among
others, it is calculated to arrest the attention of the most

* Account of State of Religion la t\it YV\$AwA%> ^.^\%

350 SCOTLAND.

careless individual in the congregation, and to convince
him that many are in earnest in their religion, and that
he ought to be so likewise."*

The author of the State of Religion in the Highlands,
aware of the objection made by Lowlanders, who are ac-
customed to hear the illiterate use so poor a dialect as
would seem unworthy of a solemn or lofty theme, reminds
us, that in Gaelic there is but one stvle for the illiterate
and the learned ; and he assures us that those who speak
generally possess solid judgments, retentive memories,
and well-stored minds. Judging by the specimens of
Gaelic which we have heard translated, we cannot but
perceive that a more dignified tone, deeper feeling, and
more highly poetical illustration is common to their dis-
course than we usually meet with in English, except
when it is studied ; even in their common conversation,
especially when under the influence of powerful feeling,
this is remarkably the case. An example of this occurs.
When one of these Highland patriarchs was informed of
the death of a friend with whom he for many years had
walked to the house of God in company, he exclaimed,
as soon as he recovered voice to speak, " Ah, who will
brush the spots from my garment now 1" Whether he
meant who should tell him his faults ? who correot his
opinions ? or who defend him from the slanders of others ?
the expression was full of pathetic and poetical beauty.
The author above alluded to remarks, that in the Low-
lands, where true religion has flourished under a faithful
pastor, on his removal it generally dies away, and very
soon indifference about divine things abounds. But in
the north their experience is very different, for if they
have the misfortune to have a careless pastor succeed one
who has been the instrument of a work of grace in the
parish, though he should live forty years amongst them,
the people are found to be as much alive to the concerns
of religion, and as earnestly desirous to obtain a good
minister, as their fathers were at his predecessor's decease*
This he ascribes, probably most justly, to the practice of

* Account of State of TU&gto&liitta Hi%UUndi«, p. 25.

SPEAKING TO THE QUESTION. 351

« speaking to the question/' which keeps not only know-
ledge, but the spirit of prayer in exercise. Its good
effects have been found by our missionaries in the Isle of
Cape Breton, whither they have followed our emigrants
from Eoss and Sutherland. They inform us that the
aged men have kept up their home habits of prayer-meet-
ings, Scripture readings, and catechisings, — so that the
new generation, reared in the wilderness, are actually
thirsting for ordinances, and building themselves houses
in which to meet for worship, until the Head of the
church shall in mercy send them pastors.

Such examples are encouraging evidence of what lay-
agency may effect, and ought to make a strong impression
on the minds of those who object to the employment of
missionaries in reclaiming our city population from the
depths of ignorance and vice, unless they have received a
regular theological education. Other highly important,
motives may doubtless operate in the preference which is
given to students and preachers of divinity when select-
ing persons for the useful work of our city missions ; and
it is scarcely possible to estimate too highly the advan-
tage which may accrue to the church by this species of
training being employed for preparing our future ministers
for the sacred office to which they aspire. But it ought
never to be forgotten, that, however desirable human
learning may be, it is not the " one thing needful ;" and
that an unspeakably higher qualification in the great busi-
ness of bringing men to the knowledge of Christ is the
teaching of the Holy Spirit. That man will be wise to
win souls who knows himself, his Saviour, and his Bible ;
although he may scarcely know even by name some of
those distinctions which are embodied in systematic theo-
logy. Had we but a company of those sedate and prayer-
ful Christian characters who shine as lights in the High-
lands set afloat in each of our cities, we might soon see
the scene of debauch turned into a place where prayer is
wont to be made, and the eye, inflamed with excess, raised
in hopeful contemplation to Heaven.

" In every parish within the bounds of the Synod of
Ross and Presbytery of Inverness fte^v\exv\> i&fes&Yu^ «t^

352 SCOTLAND.

held by pious persons for reading the Scriptures, religious
conference, and prayer. Meetings of this description are
generally held on Saturday, sometimes during daylight.
Meetings for similar exercises are held on Sabbath even-
ings. And in some cases, that every house in a hamlet
may have equal advantage, and bear an equal proportion
of the expense of the light and fire, the meeting circulates
through the hamlet" •

Would witnesses but preserve records more authentic
than oral tradition, precious things might be stated in
that country to the glory of God and the encouragement
of his church. In one parish an awakening originated in
the following manner : — A woman who hungered after
the word of life had the misfortune to be so hard of hear-
ing that she could obtain little instruction from the public
services. She fell upon the expedient of placing herself
on a little knoll by the wayside, and there laid hold on
the first individual who came from church, requesting a
note of the sermon. Then she detained the second, and
the third, till nearly all the congregation who passed that
way were collected, and they went forward together re-
citing the things they had heard, and discoursing of their
faith and hope. When several miles from the church,
they reached the point where the road by the shore split
off into many paths, by which they must each pursue
their separate way to their dwellings, scattered on the
mountain. This point became their resting-place, and,
as if loathe to part, they sung a song of praise, after
which one of the seniors of the company presented their
prayers ; and being thus somewhat filled with each other's
company they sought their homes.

We could tell of a parish whose faithful pastor knowt
that there is not a house without its altar, and without
some members of the family whose souls are enlightened
and growing in grace. We could also tell of a town in
the north, where a much-beloved minister can recount
from day-dawn to sunset, with tearful eyes, the examples
of exalted Christian attainment which he himself has

• State of Religion in \\xe H\^U*xxd%^. 27.

SPEAKING TO THE QUESTION. 853

seen, and where he can speak of a company of daily en-
quirers thronging his house, which often on a Monday
morning amounts to thirty or forty, and this including
persons of various ranks and ages. We might till many
pages with anecdotes drawn from his lips, all proving the
integrity, the Christian simplicity, and the delight in re-
ligious exercises which he has witnessed. But we forbear
to do any thing which might cause him to feel it less a
duty to record and preserve the many affecting facts he
knows, by which we trust the church will one day be
cheered. Enough has been said to exhibit the Spirit of
God reviving his church in our native land. And we
trust it may be perceived at the same time that this Holy
Spirit works not capriciously, but by consistent rules of
infinite wisdom, which, though often dark and mysterious
to our limited views, would yet, were our minds suffi-
ciently enlightened, entirely approve themselves to our
understandings. It is not as uninformed persons are apt
enough to imagine, that the Spirit comes in an arbitrary
fashion, to seize suddenly on a set of unthinking persons
and put them into fear. We allege nothing that militates
against the divine sovereignty when we say that the
Spirit works by rules that may be observed, and upon which
the people of God may found expectations. Our readers
must have observed, that when a revival occurs, a new
and prayerful concern usually comes upon those who have
already embraced the truth. They are refreshed, and
speaking out of the abundance of their hearts, they urge
religion more on their friends, pray more for them, and
for their ministers, for the church, and for the world.
Prayer paves the way — prayer fills it with travellers —
prayer enlivens and confirms souls, for prayer has power
with God and prevails. Even in the case of such amazing
success as Wesley was honoured with, when he offered
gospel truth in villages little raised above heathenism, it
must not be forgotten, that though the villagers had not
been accustomed to pray themselves, the man who ad-
dressed them was a man of prayer, and his labours were
kept continually before the Lord by the petitious of many
zealous souls.

354 SCOTLAND.

It is a mark of God's chosen people that they a erf
day and night to him.' 9 And if we will have our own
souls prosper, our own country prosper, or the church of
Christ prosper, — if we will hare the kingdoms of this
world to become the kingdoms of the Lord, we must
double our earnestness and multiply our petitions, and
call on our God till he refresh us with a plentiful rain
that shall cause the desert to blossom as the rose, and fill
the world with songs of praise.

[ 355 3

€HAPTEit XXV.

ISLE OF LEWIS.

The isle of Lewis, which is the most distant of the
Hebrides, is little known, and from its remote situation,
has escaped the researches of tourists — insomuch, that
the important events passing in its little world are scarce-
ly beard of. Yet it has for some time been to the Chris-
tian one of the most interesting spots in the British
dominions ; and the King of Kings has, out of his abun-
dant grace, selected for himself a dwelling in the hearts
of many of its simple inhabitants.

When the Edinburgh Gaelic School Society became
alive to the ignorant condition of many in the Highlands,
they sent out teachers and Bibles, and from the year
181 1 they continued to supply gradually the most neces-
sitous districts. These means have been in many cases
eminently blessed, and it is peculiarly to be noted, that
the teachers were selected with most conscientious cau-
tion. Men who were not only moral in their habits, and
skilful as instructors, were sought for, but who had em-
braced gospel truth for themselves, and therefore knew
how to convey it to others.

Mr M'Leod of Uig remarks that " the directors are
firmly attached to vital piety ; and as long as they
will act thus firmly, and continue perseveringly attached
to the glorious cause in which they have the honour
to take a prominent lead, and by which, with the Di-
vine blessing, they have already been made so emi-
nently useful to thousands of their fellow-creatures,
there is every reason to hope that God will crown their
labours with his effectual blessing. Whenever they be-
gin to receive complaints from those callous to vital
godliness, to the prejudice of their own institution and *
officebearers, they will then surely ta NV«Skut^ Vfc ^^

S56 SCOTLAND.

pery paths. May the Lord keep their feet off sue
gerous paths ! w The Report for 1 830 states, what
and more minute investigation corroborates abunda
" In broad and plain terms, we say that a might}
of the Spirit has been and now is carried on by mt
the men who teach your schools." And again, in
— " While the mists of ignorance are thus, throu
instrumentality of your schools, gradually retiring
the beams of the Sun of Righteousness, the vices i
from ignorance disappear along with them."

A correspondent in Stornoway, isle of Lewis,
July, 1828, — " The beneficial effects of your i
struck me so forcibly on my return to this island
four years' absence, that I feel constrained to write
few lines on the subject. Before I left this coui
remarked that the effect produced on the poor and
tered, by being enabled to peruse the sacred volun
in many instances a frantic consternation, similar
felt by a person on discovering himself on the bi
destruction. Rut the frantic fever soon subside!
in that infallible mirror in which they discovered
disease, they also discovered the consolatory effii
the Divine Physician's prescription. Now, many c
poor people, whom you have been the means of i
mg from their state of darkness, present so exem
spectacle as to be not only a cause of great rejoi
you, but to load those in whose hands the means o
have been long neglected with shame. The preac
the truth to these poor people, when incapable oi
sing the holy records, did not profit them muc
must afford you great gladness to know that the i
the Lord prospers in your hands." *

It was from the Gaelic teachers, then, that tl
rays of light dawned on these poor islanders,
now, the set time to favour them being come, th<
several faitbful ministers, whose declarations
truth are highly honoured to win souls. In 1 82(
M'Leod was sent as a teacher to Tolsta, in the

• Report fox I$29,^22,

ISLft OF LEWIS* S57

of Uig. His heart mourned over the deplorable darkness
of the land ; and besides teaching to read, he explained
the Scriptures to all who came to him. The number of
persons who became concerned about their spiritual con-
dition continually increasing, John was complained of to
the directors of the society, as infringing their rule,
•which forbids any thing in the form of preaching or pub-
lic exhortation to their teachers. The good man recei-
ved his rebuke, but could not promise to desist ; for he
felt that souls were in jeopardy, and that he had liberty
in speaking, and was made useful to them. The rule
was imperative, and, with whatever regret, John M'Leod
was dismissed from the service of the society. He was
reduced thus to penury, but not to silence ; and it plea-
sed the Lord of his vineyard, by an unknown hand, to
famish the means of living to this excellent man,
though no longer connected with his society, and to keep
him in the employment so dear to his heart. He conti-
nued in this work till 1832, when he died. His faithful
friend and pastor, the Rev. Alexander MLeod of Uig,
writes,—" 1 have seen him on his death-bed, and brought
his remains from Tolsta (on the north side of Loch Roag)
to the burying-ground here, have settled his just debts,
and disposed of several things for the benefit of his wi-
dow and the Gaelic School Society." We quote the
whole of Mr M'Leod's letter to the Society on this sub-
ject, published in their Report for 1 833

" A variety of circumstances prevented me hitherto
from transmitting to you a short account of one of your
Society's most devoted servants. On Monday, the 8th of
October, 1832, died at Tolstachilis, in this parish, John
M'Leod, teacher there. He was a native of Skye, and came
to the Lewis in 1 820 as a Gaelic teacher, from the Edin-
burgh Gaelic School Society. He has all along been made
eminently useful in several districts of this island, not
only in the capacity of a teacher of youth, but for rou-
sing sinners to and convincing them of their fallen state,
both by nature and practice, and was at unremitting pains
to instruct his fellow-men in the whole doctrines of in-
spiration, with an understanding &uA i^V\tv^ VcLyOcl wv

898 SOOTIrANPr

dentry gave satisfaction that these doctrines were :
spirit and life to his own soul. He had the glo
God and the salvation of souls ardently at heart.
Christian, indeed, within our knowledge or inform
was a greater wrestler at a throne of grace for a c
of the hidden manna for his own soul, and for the
perity of Zion at large ; and we have seen no fe
traveller to the heavenly city in our day who wi
pointed and tender, both in precept and example, at
singularly devoted character during the time he t
nacled amongst us. He was, in fine, day and :
watching on the walls of Jerusalem, and giving no
or ceasing not to plead, until the Lord should, t
intents and purposes, make Jerusalem a praise ii
earth.

" Several promising individuals, who own that
man's Christian labours were savingly blessed to t
have, from every part of the island, accompanied he
mains to the grave. The removal of a person so
nent in Christian attainments, is much felt by the v
body of Christians, not only in this parish, but also :
the Lewis. May the Lord mercifully add daily t<
number of his peculiar people, and fill up in the kinj
of grace the late situations of departed saints.

" John M'Leod made his will a few years ago, in v
he orders the whole of his effects to be divided bet
the Gaelic School Society and his widow ; the one
of said effects given to said Society, and the other hi
his widow ; * but whatever of this money she may no
before her death, I appoint to be paid to said society,
decidedly you see, his whole heart was interested in
Society's prosperity, which he saw was productive <
much good. I think when a few things are sold, an<
money received, that each share will amount to s
L.75 sterling. The principal part of the money is
in the hands of a Christian friend, to whom I wrote 1
on the subject.

" Be assured, as a friend of your valuable institu
how much gratified I feel in having the honour of ms

ism of lewis. 359

sack a eomimmicatioii from the parish wherein the labours
ef your Society, and the memory of the deceased shall
be had in edifying and sweet remembrance for many ge-
nerations yet to come. It is perfectly unnecessary to
make any comment upon the disinterested and holy mo-
tives by which die testator has been actuated, in favour
of am institution which he daily witnessed se productive
of efficient and active usefulness. Although circum-
stances took place which rendered it necessary for him to
operate in his Lord's vineyard under other Christian
friends, and in a situation which the Lord provided for
him in a remarkable manner, when duty led him to drop
the immediate service of the Gaelic Society, I would
remark that the deceased left this sum by means of much
Christian prudence and economy.'* *

The teachers are commonly in circumstances as poor
as those of their pupils, and this large sum was actually
saved out of the slender income of L.20 per annum.
Truly, " a little that a righteous man hath, is better than
the riches of many wicked ;" and thus was the benevolent
purpose of the donor doubly blessed. During the life and
after the removal of John M'Leod, it was still employed
in the way the parties most desired it should. We can-
not withhold a tribute of admiration to the character of
that man who was so entirely delivered from the sel-
fishness which cleaves to fallen humanity, as to bequeath
the half of all he possessed to the Society which years
before had rejected his services and cast him out.

The communications from the teacher of the school at
Barms are also of a very interesting character. We pre-
sent such extracts as we can venture to make room for :—

"December, 1828.

" Previously to my commencing teaching here, I as-
sembled the parents, male and female, and told them that
the object of the Society in sending me was not so much
lor the purpose of teaching their children as themselves ;
and that if they would now promise to attend school

* Gaelic School Report fot 1&&&.

I

860 SCOTLAND.

two days a-week, besides Sabbath morning and evening,
I would be most willing to remain amongst them. As
they were anxious to secure a teacher for their children,
they promised to comply with this request, but I had
little expectation then that I would realize it to the ex-
tent that I afterwards did ; indeed, they now confess thai
when they made the promise they were not in earnest,
but made it to secure a teacher for the time being. The
first Sabbath which I spent among tbem, I never ought
to forget, I suppose there were from 250 to 300 present.
After giving tbem an exhortation (which I conceived
suitable to the occasion), and relating to them a variety
of interesting anecdotes, calculated to stimulate them to
commence and persevere, I proceeded to offer them
copies of the Society's First Elementary Book in the name
of the Lord Jesus Christ, and told tbem that I earnestly
hoped none of them would think of taking one in His
name, but such of them as were fully resolved in his
strength patiently to persevere until they overcame every
difficulty. The scene which now presented itself to my
view, it is not easy for me to describe. The unlettered
mother received the First Book out of my hand, silently
shedding tears, while the sucking infant, unconscious of
what was going on, smiled me full in the face, hanging
at her breast ! I took particular notice of Widow Mac-
donald ; she is a great-grandmother, sixty-eight years of
age. As I approached where she sat, she stared at me,
and, at length, in broken accents, spoke as follows : * Oh
—do you think, could I learn yet?' — * Why nut?' —
' Because I am sixty-eight years of age/— 4 But though
you are, I have no doubt that you will still learn, if you
are spared and willing/ — But she continued to reply,
' Do you really think yourself that it is possible for me
to learn yet, seeing that 1 am sixty-eight years of age,
and, besides, I have great-grandchildren.' — ( But although
you have/ said I, * and although you were 100 years of
age, providing you have faith in Jesus Christ, I am fully
convinced that you may still learn/ — * Oh, then/ said
she, grasping the First Book out of my hand, * I am
taking this book in the name of Christ/ Your Committee

ISLE OF LEWIS. 961.

will be glad to learn, that this interesting old woman is
now reading the New Testament in her seventy-first
year.

" Widow Murray, aged sixty-five, had been confined
to bed a year when 1 opened school. She sent to me for
a First Book, and, by the help of her grandchildren,
learned the letters upon her bed. When she recovered,
her first visit was to the school-house, bending over a staff,
with a weight of infirmities. After I dismissed the public
meeting of tbe day, my time had been a little engaged by
taking up subscriptions for your Society ; she followed me
into my room and sat down beside me, and then said,
' Write down my name ' (she reminded me of the beau-
tiful allegory in the Pilgrim's Progress), after which she
gave me a shilling. 1 asked her if it was not too much.
' No, no,' she said, ' she only thought it too little, and
that if every one were as poor as she and her neighbours,
none would come to instruct the ignorant ; but blessed
be the name of the Lord, that he thought and saw other-
wise, and may his blessing rest upon the heads of those
godly people that are at such labour and pains in sending
out teachers to instruct blind sinners.' This old woman
is now reading the New Testament.

" Donald M« Ritchie is the father of a family. When
the school was opened here, neither he nor any member
of his family could read the Word of God. I have been
told that he promised and paid to a neighbour's boy a
lamb for going to his house every morning and evening
for the purpose of reading the chapter to him at the time
of family worship. This man and his wife are now able
to read a little in the New Testament, and a little daugh-
ter of theirs, about ten years of age, precents and reads
the chapter at family worship, whilst her father raises the
tune and prays."

The P. S. to this interesting letter, which contains
anecdotes of several other persons, states that the thirty-
six pairs of spectacles sent are all gone, and requests sixty
pairs with their prices to be sent to Stornoway quickly.

The parish of Lochs has been the scene of a consider-
able awakening, but of it we have not obtAu&d. ^ftx&a&a*

362 SCOTLAND.

lars. That of Knock, under the Rev. Finlay Cook, has
been also cheering and remarkable. Mr Cook being
aware that before 1 824, daring the ministrations of some
itinerant preachers, there had bees great and unreason-
able excitements and violent agitations amongst multi-
tudes who, after the excitement subsided, brought forth
no fruit, but settled down into their former stupor, was
particularly careful to discountenance violent outward
demonstration of feeling, and thus preserved the people
from the deplorable delusion of mistaking agitation for
regeneration, and impeding the exercise of their minds by
yielding to mere nervous emotion. By thia meant* there
was a solid and prolonged work in his parish ; only one
example of the fruit of this is within our reach at present.
The zeal of the inhabitants to enjoy the privilege of
attending family worship in the Manse, is such as to
induce some to walk a distance, which in the Low-
lands would be counted an obstacle, even to attending
church. In the parish of Knock three apprentices, who
were in the habit of meeting for Scripture reading and
prayer, had made an arrangement which enabled them
alternately to attend family worship at the Manse, five
miles from home. To accomplish this, he whose turn it
was, left work sooner than the regular hour, and the two
who remained worked an hour for him : (such arrange-
ments are said not to be uncommon). -One of these
youths, who was the only surviving son of his parents,
had offended a maniac in the neighbourhood, by often
defending his mother from his insane violence. It does
not appear whether, in the Lewis as in Skye, they once
entertained a superstition that it is unlucky to constrain
maniacs and idiots — but however that was, the poor in-
sane creature was left to range at liberty, and having
vowed revenge, found means to fulfil it ; for he took an
opportunity, when the youth was in his house in a stoop-
ing position, to cleave his skull with a spade. His parents,
of his duty to whom many beautiful instances were re-
counted, had the great consolation, under this bitter
dispensation, to believe that their child was happily pre-
pared for his hasty entrance into the world unseen. His

18h&€>¥ LEWIS. 363

two eurviviBg friends agreed in future, to hold their ac-
customed meetings for reading and prayer in the house of
the- bereaved parents, in hopes thus to contribute to their
consolation.

The Rev. Alex. M'Leod commenced hie exertions as
Minister of Uig in 1824. The people attended public
worship tolerably well from the time of his admission ;
bat he describes his painful conviction that the fixed
gaze with which they beheld him was not an intelligent
bat what Wesley used to call " a stupid attention." This
bated but one month, when he began to observe one and
another melt into tears, and a tender wistful listening, a
** living ear" substituted for the former stupid one. Pre-
sently enquirers came to obtain private instruction, and
the exigencies of the people led to the extension of reli-
gious opportunities— such as a lecture on Thursdays and
many regular prayer meetings, which still exist, and are
attended with avidity. In 1827, upwards of 600 pupils, of
various ages, attended the schools — and in 1834, mention
is made of 1 3 Sabbath schools in that one parish. Auxi-
liaries were required to aid the teachers and catechistf,
and every thing seemed to be in a state of lively move-
ment. When Mr M'L. first entered on his office all the
people of a certain age were accustomed to flock to the
table of communion. He had reason to apprehend that
few of them discerned the Lord in the feast, and preached
to them carefully for a year, before he ventured to cele-
brate that solemn ordinance ; and so much had their light
increased, that but a small portion of the old communi-
cants presented themselves, and they with silent tears.—
It is very remarkable, that in the course of years where-
in he has acted as their pastor, he has scarcely been obliged
to reject or keep back any one from this feast of love.
Indeed there are many whom their pastor would be glad to
admit, who keep back, perhaps from some erroneous ap-
prehension of the nature of the ordinance. This is the
case in several other Highland parishes. At the commu-
nion services of 1828, the island seemed to be moved
with one emotion, for 9000 people flocked to Uig on that
occasion. Then and subsequently \ta &vj* «A \i\^&^

364 SCOTLAND. -

from the fast to the thanksgiving days, have been occu-
pied in exhortation and prayer, by the various ministers
and elders, amongst whom the name of John Macdonald
of Farintosh or Urquhart stands pre-eminent. In 1833,
an immense concourse of persons attended, following and
seeking the truth, from the isles of Harris and Uist, as
they had done for a year or two before ; and the cautious
pastor, speaking of this and similar occasions, describes
to a Christian friend the " deep impression " which was
then made, the " deepening work," the " new and old con-
verts," the " liberty of the ministers in preaching," the
"refreshment of the people in hearing," aud the "fervent
longing for another such season/' He also speaks of
"the knowledge and experience of the people," of "the
Gospel prospering in Lewis," of " many new converts
being brought in during the solemnities." It is not in
our power to give much particular detail, the honourable
and judicious caution of the faithful pastor, for the pre-
sent declining to bring into public view the cases of indi-
viduals in whose real devotion to God he has much com-
fort. General results, however, are in the possession of
the public, and may be thankfully and humbly stated, to
the praise of that blessed Spirit who has wrought such
changes. In proof of the minister's own enjoyment of
his scene of labour it is pleasing to state, that he remarks
in 1834 : " Ten winters have I passed here, all wonder-
fully short, pleasant, and delightful;" and his teachers
are all so much interested in their occupation, that they
would rather expend their lives in that retired region than
remove to wealthier and more southern districts. We
hope the faithful records preserved by him who watches
for their souls as one who must give account, will, at no
distant day, be published to revive the drooping church.
In the mean time all that we are about to relate of the
general aspect of society there, we mention as detailed by
witnesses much interested in stating the truth correctly :
1. The prayerfulness of the people. — One gentleman,
who annually visits the Lewis, mentions that he has often
walked forth at eventide to have his spirit refreshed by
observing the devotional tem^t ol >fofe ^o$& *& ^Ivg—

ISLE OF LEWIS. 365

and that at all hours, from eight o'clock at night till one
in the morning, he has passed by and overheard persons en-
gaged in prayer. Many a hush formed a shelter for a soul
communing with its God ; and along the brown ridges
•f the fallow, by stooping, so as to cast the figures be-
tween the eye and the clear margin of the horizon, dim
forms might be discerned, either alone, or two and three
together, kneeling and pouring out their wants at the
footstool of mercy. The Captain of a King's ship, which
lay for a considerable time on the island, who, in pursuing
his sports, has crossed and recrossed the lands in all direc-
tions, bears witness that he never met any intoxication,
any profanity, nor indeed a single person engaged in any
•occupation which might tempt him to wish to shrink from
■public inspection, except during their frequent retirements
for prayer. He mentioned, in particular, his having en-
tered a wood yard in the town of Stornoway to enquire
into the progress of some repairs making on his boat,
when he saw two men retire behind the logs to pray to-
gether, and though their Gaelic was unintelligible to him,
their occupation, and obvious abstraction from the world,
and solemn impression of the divine presence, softened
and subdued the man of the sea, though not given to the
melting mood.

He said, " They are an extraordinary people here ; one
cannot but be struck with their honesty, kindness, and
sobriety. I am told they make a good deal of whisky for
sale. It cannot be for home consumption, for I think I
never met a drunk person out of the town. One hears
of religion elsewhere, but one sees it here in every thing."

We have pleasure in mentioning, as another example
of the devotional habits of these people, what a friend
who was rowed up the Loch Roag witnessed. The way
-being long, it is customary to stop to rest and refresh the
oarsmen. When they had drawn their boat up into the
little bay, and ceased from their toil, the men, before they
tasted of their food, raised their blue bonnets, and united
in prayer.

It may be proper to state, that the cabins of the inha-
bitants, consisting of but one apartment, furuUu. no o/fc*

\

I

366 SCOTLAND,

portunity of retirement ; and this explains in pari tie
custom of praying in the open air. There is, however,
another and more affecting reason. The people want to
repair far more frequently to the footstool of mercy than
at morning and evening ; and as their occupations ate in
general out of doors, or on the waves, so also ace their
prayers.

There are five natives of the parish of Uig who were
enlisted when a regiment was raised on <the 'island, and
having gone with the army to Egypt, lost their sight by
bphthalmy, and after their return have become -acquainted
with the doctrines of the gospel. It is common with
them to bless God for having taken away their bodily
eyes, since they regard that as one of the instruments in
his hand for openly the mental sight, which w« before
in a state of darkness. Three of them are active ieHow-
helpers in the extension of Christian truth and consola-
tion. One is a most efficient and zealous elder in the
parish of Uig ; of another we shall have occasion to re-
late a curious circumstance under the head of liberality ;
and of the third we present the following well authenti-
cated narrative, under the head of prayerfidnees.

This blind man, whose name even is unknown to us,
had the 'affliction of losing a wife who was a very pious
character. She left a daughter old enough to distinguish
the excellences of her mother. In the course of time
the father took another wife, of a very feeble constitution,
who, though a good woman, had not attained to the
Christian advancement of the first. The girl was most
exemplary in all her duties, obeying and reverencing her
stepmother as if she had been her own mother. She was
in all respects a most promising and pleasing character ;
and her father having often enjoyed spiritual conversation
with her, was, from these mutual communings, fully satis-
fied of her happy state. On a Saturday, when the weather
was tempestuous, the young people, as was customary
with them, were going out a-fishing. The father
urged his daughter to remain at home, but she said her
mother liked a fish for her dinner, and she would try to
catch one for to-morrow, as it was the only sustenance

I&XC OV LEWIS. 367

she cared for. They went to fish, when sadden] y a huge
billow swept the face of the rock on which they were set.
The boys of the company managed to scramble up the
rock, bat the beloved daughter of the blind veteran was
swept into the boiling ocean. The last view her terrified
comrades had of her, was sitting on the crest of a wave,
with her fishing-rod in one hand, and basket in the ether.
They returned with the sorrowful tidings ; and from the
nature of the rocky coast, and the course of the tides and
currents, no one entertained a hope of finding the rem-
nants of her mangled body. The Christians around,
came as they did of old to Martha and Mary, to weep
with the afflicted father, and passed the mournful night
in prayer. His mind, though before so satisfied, became
filled with alarm and concern about her final state, now
that she was gone, and his soul refused to be comforted.
In the course of prayer he was led to reiterate the peti-
tion, that if she were one of the assembly of the redeemed,
he might know it by this token, that the sea should give
back his dead, and that he might bury her. In the morn-
ing those who passed along the shore in their way to the
house of God, found the dear girl gently deposited on the
sand, her limbs decently composed, as if she had been ad-
justed for burial, and in no way defaced or injured. Then
went the weeping father, and with solemn joy took up
his dead, witnessing that " precious in the sight of the
Lord is the death of his saints ;" that their very dust is
dear to him ; and also, that He is verily the hearer and
the answerer of prayer.

Are there some who read this fact, that count it the
extreme of credulous superstition, and stamp the work in
Lewis as of this character for its sake ? That is because they
do not know the sweet intimacy and communion that
subsists between the Father in Heaven and his reconciled
children. They cannot judge of a case in which they
have no experience. Perhaps even some of those who
believe in the eflicacy of prayer, may say there is a want
of caution in narrating this story. Why then should we
be cautious to hide what God reveals ? His own spirit
dictated the narration of the prayers of G\fa«&* V&ri \»
selected bis tokens 'himself once onA Bguxt, wA ^dk^ ^w«» j

I

368 SCOTLAND.

granted to him. And if Gideon, who knew the
only by the more obscure early promises of redemp
<jouM venture to ask so much, are those who have 1
all that we have of the benignity and the compassio
Jesus, not to come boldly to the throne of grace in
of need? Is the divine character changed? Is H<
the same God who filled the fleece with dew, and
the earth around dry ; and again bedewed the grc
■and preserved the fleecy from moisture, — that heard
cry of his afflicted servant in the Lewis ? His mi
billow swept the lamb from the rock into the engu
ocean. His gentle wave restored her vacated taberi
to console her father, and answer his doubt, by ai
surance that she was that day with her Saviour in I
dise. If he hath done the great thing of dying foi
will he despise to do the less of consoling us, and pro
that his eye is upon us still ?

Howe, in his " Living Temple," in treating of 1

he terms " God's conversableness with men/' has

following reasonings, which appear so suited to the

of the bereaved parent, that we introduce them. If j

a mark of superior talent in a man, that he can adap

converse to the comprehension and knowledge of a c

why should we wonder when we behold the holy

wise condescension of the Divine Being, who deals '

his creatures according, not only to their faith, bu

their state of cultivation, and to the habits of their C(

try ? The dweller in tents is approached by three \

faring men, who address him at his tent door. To

Lawgiver, the Spirit that dwelt in the unconsumed 1

spoke in solemnity, while he kept his sheep at the 1

of the desert. David, in the refinements of a court,

a message by the lips of Nathan, a man like him

Solomon is visited on his splendid couch with a visic

the night. The multitudes of Judea hear the voic

one in rough garments crying in the wilderness. (

nelius, in return to his often presented petitions,

Peter sent to guide him ; and the blind Highland sole

when his heart is overwhelmed within him, receives

mark for which he ventures to supplicate from Him i

*» bis stronghold and presets V^v Vn \A\x\fe ^1 \\w

ISLE OF LEWIS. 369

Who shall limit the various methods of the Divine con-
verse with man, or stigmatize any one of them as un-
likely, because new to himself, and belonging to a higher
degree of faith and prayer than he has attained ?

« As man immediately owes the peculiar excellences
* el his intelligent nature to God only, it is apparently
consequent that having formed this his more excellent
creature according to his own more express likeness,
stamped it with the glorious characters of his living image,
given it a nature suitable to his own, and thereby made it
capable of rational and intelligent converse with him, he
hath it ever in his power to maintain a continual converse
with this creature, by agreeable communications, by letting
in upon it the vital beams and influences of his own light
and love, and receiving back the return of its grateful
acknowledgements and praises. Wherein it is manifest
he should do no greater thing than he hath done : for who
sees not that it is a matter of no greater difficulty to con-
verse with, than to make a reasonable creature ? Or who
would not be ashamed to deny, that he who hath been the
only author of the soul of man, and of the excellent powers
and faculties belonging to it, can more easily sustain what
he hath made, and converse with that his creature suit-
ably to the way wherein he hath made it capable of his
converse ? Whereto the consideration being added of his
gracious nature, it is further evident that he is not only
able, but apt and ready to converse with men, in such a
way as shall tend to the improving of their being to that
blessedness whereof he hath made them naturally capable,
if their own voluntary alienation and aversion to him do
not obstruct the way of that intercourse? *

We are well aware that the nature of the old and new
dispensations differs in regard to miraculous interferences,
as well as in various other particulars. But who will
venture to deny that what we term the ordinary opera-
tions of nature are so adjusted and arranged as to answer
the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man ? In the
present instance, the extremity of the Christian man's

• Howe's Living Tem^ta, ^. %&»
2 A

310 SCOTLAND.

distress, the workings of a mind deeply imbued with a
sense of the overruling providence of him who numbers
the very hairs of our heads, and his undoubting reliance
on the promises made to those who ask in faith, removed
every obstacle to converse with God which alienation or
aversion so continually present, even in the hearts of those
who do attempt to pray.

2. The uprightness of the people. — On occasion of a
year of famine, the natives were put to great straits, and
in danger of perishing for want. A vessel laden with
meal was driven upon their shores by stress of weather ?
Did the famine-stricken natives seize on the ship, and law-
lessly apply her cargo to the supply of their necessities?
If they had, hunger would have formed for them a plau-
sible excuse. Twenty years before, they would doubtless
have done so, and held themselves guiltless. But now it
was not so. Every portion was accurately weighed or
divided, and as their necessities were so great that they
had nothing then to pay, their affectionate minister gave
a promissory-note for it, knowing well that the excellent
lady, whose property the lands are, would not suffer him-
to be impoverished. The people knew this also, but none
took advantage of it, all were occupied in economising to
the utmost till one after another they had repaid their
debt. Thus they obtained not only the great blessing of
necessary food, but preserved the still greater blessing of
integrity, and a spirit free from covetousness.

It is the rule in this and the other isles of the Hebrides,
that when a man meets a stray sheep on the moor, he is
entitled to carry it home as his own, and obliged to make
an equivalent offering in the collection for the poor on the
Sabbath day. After the commencement of the revival in
the Lewis, many came to confess to their minister the
trouble of conscience thev experienced by reason of having ,
what they called a black shcpp in their flocks — some
having had them for several winters. The minister al-
ways directed them to make restitution now in the ap-
pointed way, and in one season the sum of L.16 was de-
posited in the plate. The number of sheep annually lost
has wonderfully diminished sines \tafe commencement of

ISLE OF LEWIS. 871

the revival, leading to the conclusion that the loss imputed
to accident arose from dishonesty.

3. The Christian liberality of the people. — It has long
been the custom to make a collection at the Thursday lecture,
for the most necessitous persons in the district where the
lecture is held — and thns, without poor rates, these people
support their own poor. For many years they have con-
tributed L.13 or upwards to the Gaelic School Society,
sometimes L.16, and one year when the society was in
difficulty, the contribution amounted to L.20. On trans-
mitting L.16, which was the sum collected in Uig in
1830, Mr M'Leod remarks — " Considering the circum-
stances of the people, I bear testimony that their liberality
and zeal in this case have cause to provoke very many to
similar duties. It was most delightful to see the hoary
head, and the young scholar of eight or nine years joining
in this contribution. The will preponderates over our
purse, so that we cannot do exactly what we would."
In 1831, Mr M'Leod, while he petitions that a teacher
may not be removed from his present station for another
year, says, "A poor man in that station declared to me
lately, that should the directors demand one of his cows,
he would readily give one before he would part with the
teacher."

The journal of the superintendent, in stating the exa-
mination of one of the schools in Uig, mentions the case
of a man, named Norman M'Leod, who is one of the many
hundreds of souls in the isle of Lewis that have come out
of gross darkness into the sweet and blessed light of the
knowledge of God, partly by means of the Gaelic schools,
and partly by the ministration of the truth : — " Norman
M'Leod is a native of this parish, and at an early age
enlisted into the army, went abroad, and was in several
engagements." " Balls," says he, "whizzing about me in
numbers, but the Lord directed them so that they did me
no harm." He was in Egypt, and there lived in drunken-
ness and profligacy. " There," says he in his native
Gaelic, " the Lord took from me my bodily sight. I
came home and on the way was wonderfully preserved.
At length I found myself in- my naXYseYucA. \\&\^Ws«a^

372 SCOTLAND.

•

things not as I left them. I found the Bible of God, of
which I was totally ignorant, among my friends; and
schools amongst them for teaching the knowledge of that
blessed book. I found such a work among them with
Bibles and schools as was altogether new to me. * Nay,
the very children would correct and reprove me, though
an old man. In one of these schools, the Bible caught
my ear, it sunk unto my heart ; it there opened an eye
that sin had ever kept sealed ; it read to me my deeds, it
led me to trace my former ways ; yea, times, places, and
deeds that were quite banished from my memory, were
recalled into full view. It recorded a black catalogue
against me, and seemed to fix my portion amongst the
damned. I thought my case altogether a hopeless one,
but the same Bible brought to my ears tidings of unutter-
able worth— salvation through a crucified Saviour/'

The superintendent mentions this as a preface to a little
story, " which were the honesty and simplicity of the old
man known to the reader, would be considered more inte-
resting still."

" I began," said Norman to his minister, " to think
how these Gaelic schools came to be planted in my
country. I thought on the state of my country when I
knew it before in my youth, and on the blessed fruits of
these schools among my kindred. I contrasted both, and
wondered, and thought, and wondered again. Said I,
what is this ? What a change of things ! Blessed God I
Blessed Bible ! Blessed people, that sent their schools I
and blessed schools that teach the Bible of God to perish-
ing sinners ! and blessed teachers, men of Christ I I
thought what would my poor country be, but for the
Bible and these schools. I was led into their history,
and traced them to a society in Edinburgh. They en-
grossed my attention, and I thought them really the
schools of Christ. I thought I would pray for them,

* The same astonishment was expressed by many of the disbanded
Highlanders of the 78th, on their return to their native land, on find-
ing old and young going to school, and reading the Bible in Gaelic.
1^ Abrxnan call's them in his native txmfpft, " The Schools of Christ.''

ISLE OF LEWIS. 873

and se I did ; but this, thought I, is not enough. When
the Lord took away my eyesight, he gave me a pension.
I thought I should give some of that to help his schools.
A public collection was proposed by you. I felt happy
at this, and prayed that the Lord might open na sporain
dhubkd (that is, the black purses, an appellation given to
the purses of greedy worldlings), and I myself gave two
shillings. When a collection was proposed this year, < I
think,' said I to myself, ' I shall give this year four shil-
lings, double what I gave last.' * It is enough for you,'
said something within me, * to give what you gave last
year, two shillings.'" Here follows a long and most
original debate, between Norman with the enlarged and
melted heart, and the old worldly-wise Norman. Some-
times he would give double, then five, then ten, then
back to five. During all this debate he was in great
agitation, having, as he felt, lifted up his hand to the
Lord that he would give so much. He thought of Ana-
nias and Sapphira, and dared not go back ; while the
same inward voice asked him, " < Ah, Norman, what
are you about ; you are now going crazy altogether ; you
are a poor blind man, you cannot work, you have a
family of seven to support, and the money God gave you
as a provision for your family, you should apply to the
object for which it was given, which will be most accept-
able to Him,' &c. &c.

" I then began to ruminate on the whole process, and
at length I thought my opposition might be the sugges-
tion of Satan to keep me from giving so much to the
cause of Christ. On reflecting on this for a while, I felt
convinced it was he. I started upon my legs, and lifting
up my hand with defiance, I said, * Ah ! you devil, I will
give a score of them. I will give a pound note every
year I live, so the further you follow me, the more you
shall lose.' From that moment the temptation ceased.*'

" How interesting and encouraging it is to mark the
wonderful and merciful working of God in preserving
this poor blind man abroad, and in bringing him in safety
home to his native land, until, by your instrumentality,
he should be made acquainted with, tha ws^* rcA ^&ro<-

374 SCOTLAND.

tion of God. Thus, from Egypt all the way, a blind
scholar has been brought to your schools. Thus, the
Bible having been blessed to a poor blind man, in a
remote hamlet of your land, has drawn forth the prayer
of his heart in its own cause, and as much out of his
small pittance for the cause of Christ, as out of the
purses of those who have their hundreds and their thou-
sands. Poor Norman contributed his * score of shillings'
both last year and the present, and says he means to do
so while he lives, ( unless the King becomes bankrupt!'" *
We have pleasure in stating that Norman is not weary of
his liberality, as he adds one penny to his pound for every
year that God adds to his life.

Their pastor, knowing that, by losses at sea and a bad
harvest, tbey were one season unusually impoverished,
did not call in the collection as usual ; but they collected
it amongst themselves, and carried it to him. He said
he feared they could not afford it, but they would not be
excused.

In 1835, when, in addition to all their usual collec-
tions, tbey in one day at church gathered L.20 for church
extension, they were favoured with such a successful
fishing season, as enabled them to supply all the wants of
the winter. The fishing had for many years failed, and
the people observed that, by means of this wealth be-
stowed on them from the sea in 1 835, they were amply
repaid for all they had been enabled to give. This is
another of those facts which we note to the glory of Him
who is nigh unto all them that fear him. He knoweth
what we have need of, and they who scatter in faith shall
still increase. Let not any of those contributors shrink
from this mention of the gracious dealing of God with
them. The effort of their liberality was known to those
interested in the church extension scheme, and the plen-
tiful fishing was told in the newspapers. May those who
see the divine hand give Him the praise !

Dr Chalmers, who is well acquainted with the amount
usually collected in such a situation, observed that L.7

• Gaelic School Report for 1628, p. 48.

ISLE OF LEWIS. 87 5

would have been a handsome contribution for the parish
of Uig. The parish of Lochs must also be mentioned as
rivalling its neighbour in liberality, having contributed
as much as L.20 to the Gaelic School Society in one
year, influenced by the same feeling of gratitude and
concern for the ignorant. It is pleasing to be enabled
to trace this to tbe only genuine source of liberality.
The faithful pastor at Lochs has lately been cheered by
seeing several new souls awakened, and the good work is
going on prosperously in the early months of 1 836. May
the spirit of the Lord cause this thing to grow !

One feature of this revival peculiarly interesting is
that souls of all ages have been affected, from the infant
of three years to the man verging on a hundred. We
present a notice of the youngest, and two of the oldest
within our knowledge. In Lewis, as in the American
revivals, the effects produced on the characters of others,
by the influences of the Holy Spirit, seem to occupy
many minds with an unwonted solemnity, the cause of
which they do not themselves always perceive ; and many
are excited to imitate pious neighbours, by establishing
family prayer, who are not as yet walking in the true
light of the Gospel. This is said to explain some parts
of the conduct of the parents of the child whose little
history is here related.

Catharine Smith was a native of Pabay, a small island
in Loch Roag, where dwell seven families. From their
insular situation and poverty, it has not been in the
power of the parents to educate their children ; but little
Kitty is an example of the truth that all God's children
are taught of him, for when only two years old she was
observed to lay aside her playthings, and clasp her little
hands with reverence during family worship ; and at the
age of three she was in the habit of repeating the 23d
Psalm, with such relish and fervour as showed that she
looked to the good shepherd in the character of a lamb of
his flock. Her parents taught her also the Lord's Prayer,
which she repeated duly, not only at her stated times,
bat often in the silence of night. She frequently pressed
the duty of prayer, not only on the oAihet tYSfa»&*\nX

376 SCOTLAND.

on her parents, and she told her father that, in their
absence, when she would ask a blessing on the food left
for the children, her brothers and sisters would mock at
and beat her for doing so. At another time, when she
was probably about six years old, she was out with her
companions herding cattle, when she spoke to them of
the comeliness of Christ. They, probably to tempt her,
said he was black. She left them, and returned home
much cast down, and said, " The children vexed me very
much to-day. I will not go with them, for they said that
Christ was black, and that grieved my spirit." Her
parents asked her what she replied to that. " I told
them/' she said, " that Christ is white and glorious in his
appareL"

It is probable that Kitty was sufficiently enlightened
to discern the moral comeliness of the gracious Redeem-
er, while her thoughtless comrades did not extend their
ideas beyond personal beauty. They would have said
any thing that might produce the effect of provoking their
playfellow, whose more intelligent spirit grieved for
them that they " saw no beauty in him" whom her soul
loved, " that they should desire him." Perhaps no Chris*
tian character is truly confirmed in faith and patience,
without some trial of persecution, which both shows to the
heart its own corruption, by the irritating effects of gain-
saying, and affords an opportunity of proving that we are
not ashamed of the gospel of Christ. This dear child
had her trial adapted to her age and sphere, and came
forth on the Lord's side holding fast the word of life, in
as firm a way as a much more experienced Christian
might have done,

The Rev. J. Macdonald of Farintosh having preached
in the parish of Uig, Kitty's parents were among the
many who went to hear him. On their return they men-
tioned what he had said about the formality of much that
is called prayer, and the ignorance of many as to its spi-
rituality ; they stated, according to their recollection of
the sermon, that many had old useless prayers, and greatly
needed to learn to pray with the Spirit. The child ob-
served this, and two days after, said to her mother, " it

ISLS OF LEWIS. 377

is time for me to give over my old form of prayer ." Her
mother replied, " neither you nor your prayers are old ; *
hut she rejoined, " I must give them over, and use the
prayers which the Lord will teach me." After this she
withdrew to retired spots for prayer. At one time her
younger sister 1 returned without her, and on being asked
where she had left Kitty, she said, " I left her praying/*
Her father says that he has often sat up in bed listening
to her sweet young voice, presenting this petition with
heartfelt earnestness, " Oh, redeem me from spiritual and
eternal death."

From the remoteness of her dwelling, Kitty had never
attended any place of public worship, — but the Sabbath
was her delight, — and often would she call in her brothers
and sisters from the play in which they were thought-
lessly engaged, asking them to join in prayer and other
devout exercises, and warning them, that if they profaned
the day, and disliked God's worship, they must perish.
Her mother observing the intent gaze with which she
looked on a large fire, enquired what she saw in that fire?
She replied, " I am seeing that my state would be awful if
I were to fall into that fire, even though I should be im-
mediately taken out ; but wo is me, those who are cast
into hell fire will never come out thence." Another day,
when walking by the side of a precipice, and looking
down, she exclaimed to her mother, " how fearful would
our state be if we were to fall down this rock, even
though we should be lifted up again ; but they who are
cast into the depths of hell will never be raised there-
from."*

One day her mother found her lying on a bench with
a sad countenance, and addressed some jocular words to
her with a view to cheer her. But the child's heart was
occupied with solemn thoughts of eternity ; and instead
of smiling, she answered gravely, " O, mother, you are
vexing my spirit, I would rather hear you praying." In

• The reader is requested to observe that the child's words are
translated from the Gaelic, and thus have lost their infantine ex-

378 SCOTLAND.

truth, eternity was very near her, and the Spirit of God
was preparing her for entering it. A* she got up one
morning, she said, " O, are we not wicked creatures who
have put Christ to death." Her mother, curious to hear
what one so young could say on such a subject, replied,
" Christ was put to death, Kitty, long before we were
born." The child, speaking with an understanding heart,
said, " mother, 1 am younger than you, but my sins were
crucifying him." After a pause, she added, " what a
wonder that Christ could be put to death when he him-
self was God, and had power to kill every one ; indeed,
they only put him to death as man, for it is impossible to
kill God." She used often to repeat passages from Peter
Grant's spiritual songs, such as, " It is the blood of the
Lamb that precious is." When she came to the conclu-
sion of the verse, " It is not valued according to its
worth," she would, in touching terms, lament the sad
truth, that His blood is so lightly thought of. Being
present when some pious persons spoke of those in vii.
Kev. who have washed their robes and made them white
in the blood of the Lamb, she said, " is it not wonderful
that, while other blood stains what is dipped in it, this
cleanses and makes white."

Murdoch Macleod being engaged in the valuable duties
of a Scottish elder in the little island of Pabay, Kitty
wished much to hear him, but from bashfulness was
ashamed to enter the house where he was employed in
worship ; she therefore climbed up to the window and
sat there till all was over. Being asked what she had
heard, she said she was amazed to hear that Christ offered
himself as a Saviour to many in our land who rejected
him, and that he was now going to other and more remote
quarters to win souls. She then added with the pathos
of a full heart, " O, who knows but he may return here
again."

Soon after she had completed her seventh year she was
attacked by that sickness which opened her way to the
kingdom of Heaven. When her father asked who she
pitied most of those she would leave behind, she replied
that she pitied every one whom she left in a Christies*

ISLE OF LEWIS. 379

state. She suffered much from thirst during her illness,
and her mother, reluctant to give her so much cold water
as she longed for, fell upon the evil expedient of telling
her that the well was dried up. The following day,
when she saw water brought in for household purposes,
poor Kitty's heart was grieved, and she said, " O, mother
dear, was it not you who told the great lie yesterday, when
you said the well was dry — O, never do so again, for it
angers God." During her illness, she was enabled almost
literally to obey the command, " pray without ceasing,"
and was often interceding with the Lord to look down
and visit her native place. On the morning of her last
day on earth, her father said, " there is reason for thank-
fulness that we see another day.*' Kitty opened her eyes,
and said, " O, Holy One of Israel save me from death,"
a petition often used when in perfect health, and evidently
referring to spiritual and eternal death. Throughout the
day she was generally silent, which her father remarked,
saying, '< I do not hear you praying as usual;" to which
she replied, " dear father, I pray without ceasing, though
not because you desire me to do so." In her last moments
she was heard to say, " O, redeem me from death." Her
father, leaning over her, said, " Kitty, where are you
now ? " To which the reply was, " I am on the shore ;"
and immediately her soul was launched into the great
ocean of eternity. In December, 1829, this lowly child
was carried from her poor native island to the blessed
region where the redeemed of the Lord find their home,
and her name has left a sweet perfume behind it.

From this most satisfactory and authentic account of
the blessed state of one of the youngest souls brought to
Christ during the revival at the Lewis, which strongly
reminds us of the narrative of a child of equally tender
years detailed by Jonathan Edwards, we turn to two aged
men, who almost literally explain the anomalous ex-
pression, " a child of a hundred years old."

John M'Kae, familv piper to the Earl of Seaforth, and
probably having inherited that rather dignified office from
a line of ancestors, stimulated by desire after the truth,
acquired the art of reading when very old. H& w^&mL

380 SCOTLAND.

to the noble lady, who is not only heir t& her father's
lands, but acts as the patroness and friend of all the
Lewis, for a very large printed Bible, " as she must
remember that his eyes were nearly fourscore years old."
The lady remarked, that as there were no Gaelic schools
in his youth, she supposed it did not signify, as its being
a large print would not enable him to read it. " Ay,*
said the patriarchal student, " but I've been to school, and
I have learnt to read her * myself, for that is better than
hearing her read." The large Bible was procured by
sending all the way to Dingwall, and when he received
it, poor M'Kae hugged it to his breast, while tears started
in his eyes, and he exclaimed, " Ay then, may be I may
read her through yet myself before I die ; I've heard her
read in the kirk, but I never thought to read her myself*
-—and a diligent student did the old man prove himself
while he sat by the hall tire with the Bible on his knee.
In a few months after obtaining this treasure he was
called to the full enjoyment of all its blessed promises.
He had been a sober and respectable person during his
long life, but he was believed to have been but lately
awakened to a deeper sense of eternal things, by having
his only son, who was celebrated as a fine swimmer,
drowned when crossing a loch.

Malcolm Macleod had attained the great age of 95,
without experiencing repentance unto life. Infirmity
had for some time prevented him from attending public
worship, and as far as man might judge, his decaying
faculties were fast shutting up the avenues to the soul,
and he was less likely than many to become the subject
of converting grace. But the Lord saw it not so. In
October or November, 1834, his pious daughter brought
home notes of a sermon she had been hearing, which
were made the means of serious impression to her father,
and he is going on in a very promising progress in the
divine life. Though he is becoming blind with age, his

* It is pretty generally known that Highlanders apply personal
pronouns to in a nimate objects, and reverie the genders in using
tbem.

ISLB OF LEWIS. 381

mental faculties are entire, and the whole man is enliven-
ed) having received a stimulus which arouses his atten-
tion, sharpens his understanding, and interests his heart*
Instead of dozing away his hours, he now sleeps very lit-
tle, prayer and praise have also become his principal food.
His glad pastor says of him, " He is a most interesting
sight, caught at the eleventh hour ; O how wonderful are the
ways of sovereign grace ! " With his usual faithfulness Mr
MacLeod ministers to him in private, and lately preached
at his bed-side on the man who was thirty-eight years at the
pool. And at the last season of communion the vener-
able man was borne by four friends and placed at the
table of his Lord, with tears of sorrow for past profana-
tion of that privilege, and of grateful love for present
blessings coursing each other over his furrowed cheeks.
The whole multitude were moved, every eye glistening
in sweet sympathy with his feelings. When we hear of
such things, may we not justly exclaim, " what hath God
wrought !"

In 1835, the Rev. A. MacLeod visited some of the
other western Isles to ascertain their state, and was much
moved to see the Isle of Tyree in particular, fortified
against gospel truth, by the opposition of those having
influence, and the natural ignorance and corruption of the
people. His heart has not found rest without suggesting
means to " assault the ancient garrison," so that they
may " in the Lord's good time subdue and drive the
Canaanite out of the land." But that which brings the
visit to Tyree under our peculiar notice, is the effect pro-
duced on the people of Uig, when their pastor again reach-
ed home, and related to them what he had witnessed.
He frequently had occasion to observe that after a short
absence, not only was the love of his people for himself
increased, but their zeal to run their Christian course
also* On hearing of the deplorable ignorance and wick-
edness to be met with in the Isle of Tyree, several of
Mr MacLeod's people who were then as careless as they,
were brought under concern ; and when they heard of the
religious views entertained by some of these islanders,
they were convicted with having secretly cW'\^^i\\ai-

382 SCOTLAND.

Jar opinions, although they were daily favoured with
gospel ordinances. Since November in particular, there
has been much religious impression amongst the people.
Silent tears in general pervading the whole congregation.
This used to be the case during the long time when wor-
ship was held in the field, while the church was building,
but had subsided in a degree since they occupied the. nevr
church, till this fresh awakening has melted many new
hearts, and refreshed many who had been previously
awakened. It is a fact much worthy of observation, that
during ten years in which this work of grace has made a
steady progress, there has not been one outbreaking of
enthusiasm, or delusion, or false doctrine, so that their
minister expressed great astonishment and thankfulness,
after reading Dr Sprague's work on American Revivals,
that they have been so graciously preserved from the ex-
travagance and error which has in some few instances
broke in to injure the integrity of the work in America.

In considering the state of things in the parish of Uig,
we are disposed to rejoice over it more than over any
other Scottish Revival. Its calm, and deep, and prolong-
ed flow, and its sincerity may be imputed to some natural
and obvious causes. God has vouchsafed to them for
ten years the ministrations of a man, whose method is
consistent and now well understood by them. He has
been preserved in prayerful humility as their watchman,
and saved from in any way casting a stumblingblock in
their way. The ministers who have been placed in the
neighbouring churches (two of which are government
churches that have within a few years been opened on
the island) are men who greatly strengthen his hands by
preaching not *' another gospel," but the same doctrine
with himself, thus avoiding distraction and perplexity.
Though Uig be the most enlivened spot, the revival is
by no means limited to that parish. There has been no
variety of sects introducing controversy and strife, or
withdrawing men's minds from the essentials that con-
cern their own souls, to fix them on the less weighty
forms of church government, or questions of no profit.
In this respect, truth has Yva.d * fairer entrance to the

ISLE OF LEWIS. 383

mind, and prayer has not been hindered. At Arran
there seemed to be a tendency in some to yield to bodily
excitement and nervous emotions which their results
proved not to have been genuine workings of the renewed
heart. In Glenlyon the spirit of controversy met and
drove back the spirit of contrition. At Moulin the re-
moval of the faithful instructor left the sheep to be scat-
tered. But in Lewis hitherto the Lord hath upheld and
sheltered his flock from such dangers, and the spirit of
faith and prayer and a sound mind is preserved amongst
them. May it never die away, but from this distant spot
of our empire may the blessed wave of salvation swell
and rise, till it shall overflow the land, and gather in every
county, every parish, and every soul to the kingdom of
our God and of his Christ !

The point designed to be proved by this little work is y
that it is true that we have had revivals in Great Britain.
This, it is humbly trusted, has been accomplished by the
few unexaggerated facts here stated, which constitute but
a slender portion of the matter of a similar kind, that a
careful research would bring to view, as what has been
vouchsafed to our country since the Reformation. It is
pleasing to hear that Haworth, the scene of Grimshaw's
labours, and of a Divine awakening in the last century, is
again visited by a shower of the Holy Spirit, and that in
more than one of the congregations which took their rise
so many years ago, the Spirit of penitence and of prayer
is at present bestowed in a lively manner — especially in
one community of baptists, upwards of sixty members
having been added to them during the last few months.

" Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the
Lord your God : for he hath given you the former rain
moderately, and he will cause to come down for you the
rain, the former rain and the latter rain." — Joel, ii. 23.

r.

£

■A

APPENDIX.

FALSE APPEARANCES OF THE INFLUENCES OF

THE HOLY SPIRIT.

The occupation of searching for the' Spirit's operations on
the souls of men, is calculated to have an effect the very
reverse of fostering credulity. The darkness of human igno-
rance, the folly and infirmity of human affections, the aptitude
of the mind which experiences some solicitude about its eter-
nal welfare to catch up erroneous notions, and in its confusion
to accept pungent feeling and evanescent emotion as marks
of its reconciliation to God — not only these, but the excita-
bility of human beings when collected in multitudes, of which
the history of tlie world furnishes abundant examples, tend
to put the enquirer in an attitude of distrust. In matters not
connected with religion at all, we see periods of enthusiasm — •
nay, we may say of fanaticism— either political, mercantile,
or philosophical, which, in the ardour they have excited, are
somewhat analogous to the emotion of a revival. The senti-
ment that continually furnished thousands to fight and to perish
in the Crusades, which partook, in the minds of many of the
leaders at least, as much of the nature of political as religious
fanaticism ; the spirit of revolution which so recently rendered
France callous to the horror of being deluged with blood ;
the spirit of cupidity or speculation which induced hundreds
to risk their all in the South Sea bubble and the Darien
expedition ; the spirit from which some of our countrymen
are to this hour smarting by means of their failure to gather
wealth from the mines of South America ; the spirit which
for a time pervaded the philosophers of Europe, so as to lead
them to consume their lives in lonely cells, concocting all
manner of baneful substances over gloomy ftiuv^^\w ^sr&i

2b

I

386 FALSE REVIVALS.

*

of the philosopher's stone;— that same spirit has been at
work also in the progress of religion, and if for a while it has
lain in abeyance, it required but to be stirred to show itself
in all its vigour. Mind is a great enigma. It possesses sym-
pathies of an extraordinary nature, which, when the proper
chord is touched, seem to give a supernatural energy to the
human character. The knowledge of this renders it neces-
sary to " try the Spirits," and to guard steadily against mis-
taking false excitements for the genuine influences of the
Holy Spirit, which alone produces repentance unto life.

From the time when Theudas boasted himself to be some-
body, and about four hundred men joined themselves to him—
and Judas of Galilee, who drew away much people after him,
who also perished* — down to the present time, there seems
no century to have passed without having produced a leader
of delusions in some part of the Christian world.

The Montanists in Arabia, in 172, were seized with rap-
tures, fell into ecstasies, and uttered unintelligible sounds;
and even Tertullian, esteemed as one of the Fathers, was
drawn aside by them.

The soul sickens over the publications which recount the
extravagances of many who might be very sincere in the
midst of their delusions. " The Cry from the Desert," the
" Prophetical Warnings," " The History of the Camizars,"
" Lacy's Warnings," are almost sufficiently humbling and
disgusting, to excite distrust on reading the very best authen-
ticated accounts of the genuine works of the Spirit. The
mind is rather required to guard against rejecting truth than
against admitting folly and insanity. ,

When Martin Luther began his important work, there
was no lack of impediments thrown in his way in the form oi
false prophets and false reformers. Witness Thomas Munzer
and Nicolas Stork. We extract a brief passage from Luther's
letter to the Elector of Saxony, which, in his very energetic
and blunt manner, gives us his view of the cause of the false
excitements which impeded him.

1520. " It is Satan's method to attempt to crush every
revival of the Divine word, first by force, then by false spirits,
then by artful and mischievous teachers. It was so in the
first propagation of the gospel. He deluged Christendom
with the blood of martyrs. But this did not answer his pur-
pose. He therefore sent forth a tribe of false prophets, and
rilled every corner of the world with heresies, till at length the

• See Acta, v. 3<S, 37.

NORTH OF IRELAND. 387

Papacy, that most powerful of all the Antichrists, completed
his design. It is so at this very time. They reckon little
of our teaching faith, charity, and the cross at Wittemberg.
' You must hear,' say they, ' the voice of God itself.' "

In our own country, from the visit of the Fifth Monarchy
men, and the ejaculatory denunciations of Eliza Barton, the
holy maid of Kent, in 1533, down to Joanna Southcote, we
have not failed to be tempted by lying spirits and extrava-
gances, the folly and profanity of which fill the mind with
shame and sorrow that any should be found to adopt them.

Of these we present one which seems distinctly a device
of the enemy of souls, purposely to impede the work of
revival which went on so prosperously in the North of Ire-
land during the ministry of the Scottish clergy about 1630.

" At Craigfergus, in 1627, lived one Mr James Glendon-
ning, a lecturer, who met with great applause for his learning.
My curiosity being on this account raised, I" [Mr Blair of
Bangor] " went one day to hear him ; but perceived that he
did but trifle away the time in citing passages from learned
authors, whom he had never seen nor read. After sermon,
I communed freely with him on that matter, and he was so
much convinced that his ministrations did not edify the peo-
ple of that place, that he quickly retired to Oldstone ; where,
as it was a country place, and the people very ignorant, he
hoped to do more good. Accordingly, the Lord was pleased ^
to serve himself by him ; for no sooner was he settled at
Oldstone, than he began to preach diligently, and having a
strong voice, vehement delivery, and treating much of the
law and its threatenings, he roused up the people, and
awakened them with terrors ; but not having understood the
gospel well, nor been well grounded in learning, nor of a solid
judgment, he could not pacify the conscience with the gospel
offers, nor silence the objections and resolve the doubts of
the awakened.

• c Mr Glendonning was at first glad of the confluence of
people " [drawn together by the monthly meetings at Antrim],
•• but we not having invited him to bear a part in the monthly
meetings, he became so emulous, that to preserve popular
applause, he watched and fasted wonderfully. Afterwards,
he was smitten with a number of erroneous and enthusiastic
opinions — such as that persons turning in bed after they fell
asleep, was an evidence of their want of the truth of Chris-
tianity ; condescending upon a certain short day as the day of
judgment ; and affirming that whoever would join with him
in a ridiculous way of roaring out sotoc^i^w^^vw^^^

388 FALSE REVIVALS.

their faces on the earth, would undoubtedly be converted;
and the like.

" Some judicious gentlemen, to whom he had imparted
these conceits, having formerly received benefit from his
ministry, sent an express for me to repair to him with all
expedition. Accordingly. I made haste to visit him, and
found him so drowned in his delusions, that he endeavoured
to convert me to his opinions, and even adventured to put his
foot in the fire, in expectation of his persuading me by a
miracle, which I prevented by mere force. But finding nim
resolute in his madness, I humoured him in the disclosure of
his notions, and then from his own mouth I convicted him
of contradictions and absurdities. Whereupon he made a
motion to pray, and ere ever I had considered well what to
do, he was flat upon the earth, roaring out his absurdities
and repetitions in such a way as surprised all who were within
hearing. Finding him thus add sin to his folly, I required him
in the Lord's name to be silent, and kneeling down (several
other persons occasionally present also joining in the duty),
I prayed with humble confidence for a considerable space,
and when I had made an end, Mr Glendonning took me
aside, and confessed he saw himself mistaken, and entreated
that the matter might be concealed. Yet this delusive dis-
temper was not at an end, for some time thereafter he fell
again into it, and embracing one error after another, he set
out at last on a visit to the seven churches of Asia." •

Mr Blair does not impute the extravagances of this man to
insanity, though from the recurrence of his delusions, that
was most probably the real cause of his unscriptural follies.
The pious men of that neighbourhood, who were instrumental
in producing a great work of God, did not doubt that it was
a deep design of Satan in this way to disgrace the real and
true conversions. They had reason, however, to thank God
for the display of his wisdom, power, and goodness in that
matter ; for neither man nor woman were stumbled by his
fall, but took warning thereby to avoid the extravagances
which he adopted, and were taught to work out their salva-
tion with the greater fear and trembling. What is particu-
larly remarkable in this man's history is, that " the Lord was
pleased to serve himself by him, as he roused up the people
and awakened them with terrors ;" and that " judicious gen-
tlemen had received benefit by his ministry." Thus a man
full of follies and false conceits, and who did not himself

• Memoir of ftev. U. ^\wx . ^. fcft> ftl, 62.

NORTH OF IRELAND. . 389

understand the way of salvation, was made the instrument of
commencing legal conviction in the minds of persons far supe-
rior to him in intellect, and who advanced under divine teach-
ing to the true knowledge of the plan of salvation, while he
adhered to his delusions.

Three years later, Mr Blair complains of a similar delu-
sion, but more pernicious, because more extended in its ope-
ration. " The gospel thus flourishing by the ministry of his
servants, and all opposition falling before it, we looked for a
respite ; but to our great grief, Satan was at last let loose, to
contrive a pernicious device to dishonour God. By this time
there were many converts in all our congregations, who, being
the objects of Satan's envy, he set himself to perplex them,
and discredit the work of God upon their hearts, playing the
ape by this stratagem. He counterfeited the work of the
Holy Spirit upon several people about Lochlearn, causing
them to fall a mourning and crying during the time of public
worship, and some of them were afflicted with pangs like con-
vulsions. Their number increased daily, and at first both pas-
tors and people pitied them, and had charitable thoughts
concerning them, hoping that the Holy Spirit was at work
with them. But thereafter, when they conferred with these
persons, they did never discover any sense of their sinful
state, nor any panting after the Saviour. Yet not content
with this trial, the minister of the place wrote to his brethren
to come and examine the matter ; and when we came and
had conferred with them, we perceived it to be a mere delu-
sion and cheat of the destroyer to slander and disgrace the
work of the Lord.

" The very next Sabbath, an ignorant person in my con-
gregation made a noise and stretching of his body ; but in-
continent I was assisted to rebuke that lying spirit which
disturbed the worship of God, and I charged the same, in
the name and authority of Jesus Christ, not to molest that
congregation; and, through God's mercy, we met with no
more of that sort" *

" The Bishops of Scotland sent information to the King,
informing against us by Mr John Maxwell, called Bishop of
Ross ; and thinking that nonconformity would not be a crime
sufficiently heinous, they informed that we stirred up the
people to ecstasies and enthusiasms. There were, indeed, in
some parishes, especially in Braidisland, where was a godly
aged minister, Mr Edward Bryce, some people who used in

* Memoir of Rev. R. BVux, ^. 1%.

390 FALSE REVIVALS,

time of sermon to fall on a high breathing and panting, as
those do who have run long ; but most of the ministers, and I
especially those who were complained of, discountenanced
these practices, and suspected them not to proceed from the
working of the Spirit of God, and that upon this ground.
These people were alike affected, whatever purpose was
preached ; yea, although by one who had neither gifts nor
good affections to the work of God ; and accordingly few of
these people ever came forward to any solid exercise of
Christianity, but continued ignorant and profane, and left off
that seeming emotion." *

Mr Blair and Mr Livingston being fellow-labourers among
the Scotch settlers in the north of Ireland, these false ex-
citements which bear tlve same date, and gave ground for
their being falsely accused to the king, must be one and the
same. But Mr Blair mentions their existence in one place
only, while Mr Livingston speaks of " some parishes/' as if
it were a more extended evil.

It was as long after this date as 1688 that France produced
a band of persons who made pretensions to supernatural reve-
lations and prophecy. They arose in Dauphiny among the
Protestants. They professed themselves inspired by the Holy
Ghost, and when the fit came upon them were accustomed to ,
. swoon, to beat with hands and feet, while they lay on their
backs with closed eyes and heaving breasts. These convul-
sions were followed by twitchings, after which they delivered
their utterances. They professed to see heaven open, the
holy angels, paradise, an d^ hell. Their assemblies at times
consisted of three or four thousand persons — men, women, and
even very young children hurrying to the appointed place.
The burden of their prophecies was, " Amend your lives, re-
pent ye ; the end of all things draws nigh." The hills rebound-
ed with their loud cries for mercy. They also uttered loud
imprecations against the priests, the church, the pope, and
antichrist, with predictions of the speedy downfall of popery.
People of good understanding know not what to make of it
when they heard boys and girls, of the very dregs of the peo-
ple, who could not so much as read, quote with fluency many
texts of the Holy Scriptures.

In 1706 four of these prophets made their way to England,
where the infection caught so quickly, that before the year
was out two or three hundred, in and about London, of both
sexes and various ages, had joined them. They made preten-

* Life of Rev. 3. Itfnagitai&i^A^.

FRENCH PROPHETS. 391

sion to the gift of healing ; taught erroneous doctrines— such
as that forgiveness of sin may be obtained independent of re-
pentance ; and uttered prophecies, of the fulfilment of which
they were so persuaded, that John Lacy, who became one of
the most prominent amongst them, ventured to conclude the
preface to his last " Warning " with these words :*—•* If, in
six months now to come, the mighty power of God doth not
attest they were from him, I shall, before . all the world, ac-
knowledge my delusion. Witness my hand, this 29th day of
October, 1707. John Lacy."

Their influence was much enfeebled by their having had the
folly to fix the 25th day of May, 1708, for the resurrection of
Dr Emens, a celebrated person amongst them. On the day spe-
cified, the public curiosity or credulity was so great, that not
less than 20,000 persons assembled near his grave, and a
guard of soldiers was required to prevent disorder. Of course,
the ignorant multitude were disappointed of the promised
spectacle, the remains of Dr Emens still retaining their dark
abode.

It seems strange that any were so perverse as to remain
unconvinced after such a disappointment as this. But as we .
shall presently see, they obtained a footing in Edinburgh
during the following year ; and there is no reason to doubt,
that it was a remnant of the same folly which still lingered in
London thirty years later. There are in Wesley's journals
repeated references to it. His account of a visit he made to
one of these prophets, in September, 1739, we extract: —

*' I went, having been long importuned thereto, about five
in the evening, with four or five of my friends, to a house
where was one of those called French prophets. After a time
she came in. She seemed about four or five-and- twenty, of
an agreeable speech and behaviour. She asked why we came ?
I said, to ' try the spirits, whether they be of God.' Pre-
sently after she leaned back in her chair, and seemed to have
strong workings in her breast, with deep sighings intermixed.
Her head and hands, and, by turns, every part of her body
seemed also to be in a kind of convulsive motion. This con-
tinued about ten minutes ; till about six she began to speak
(though the workings, sighings, and contortions of her body
were so intermixed with her words, that she seldom spoke
half a sentence together) with a clear strong voice, ' Father,
thy will, thy will be done Thus saith the Lord, if of any of
you that is a father, his child ask bread, will he give him a
stone ? If he ask a fish, will he give him a scoy^vkvI ksSt.
bread of me, my children, and I wi\\ give ^ou Xswai&u \^fi&.

392 FALSE RETIVAL8.

not, will not give you a scorpion. By this judge of what ye
shall now hear.'

" She spoke much (all as in the person of God, and mostly
in Scripture words) of the fulfilling of the prophecies, of the
coming of Christ now at hand, and the spreading of the gos-

Eel over all the earth. Then she exhorted us not to be in
aste in judging her spirit to be or not to be of God ; but to
wait upon Goo; and he would teach us, if we conferred not
with flesh and blood. She added, with many enforcements,
that we must watch and pray, and take up our cross, and be
still before God.

" Two or three of our company were much affected, and
believed she spoke by the Spirit of God. But this was in no
wise clear to me. The motion might be either hysterical or
artificial ; and the same words any person of a good under-
standing, and well versed in the Scriptures, might have spo-
ken. But I let the matter alone ; knowing this, that if it be
not of God, it will come to nought" •

These persons ascended to very sublime heights in .quiet-
ism, forbidding the preaching of the gospel, the observing of
the Sabbath more than all other days for religious purposes, and
every other active duty of Christianity, conceiving their duty
and safety to consist in being still. A deputation of three or
four of them waited on Mr Wesley, and informed him that
they would not quit his roof till they had by prayer brought
him to the same possession of the hidden life with themselves.
It would ill have accorded with the temperament of the lively
itinerant to sit on a stool all day in mute meditation. He
had neither leisure nor taste for the species of discipline his
visitors wished to subject him to ; he therefore told them, as
such was their purpose, they would be most undisturbed if
they sat in the society- room. There he left them from early
morning while he pursued his avocations ; the weather was
cold; they had no food; and feeling that in spite of their
quietism they had not overcome the necessities of nature, they
slunk from the house towards evening, and left Mr Wesley
to pursue his own way of propagating the gospel.

In connexion with the subject of false excitements, we have
the means, from most authentic and unpublished documents,
to give a representation of the manners and utterances of
some persons assuming to be prophets, who visited Edinburgh
in 1 709, and who probably sprung from the " French Pro-
phets " above alluded to. Whether any of the persons de-

PROPHETS IN EDINBURGH. 393

i

scribed in these letters were natives of France or not, can
only be conjectured by the names. The letters are from
a highly respectable minister of the Church of Scotland, ad-
dressed to his brother, then a student of medicine in the Uni-
versity of Leyden, and afterwards, for more than thirty years,
a physician in the town of Haddington. We extract only such
parts of the letters as refer to this subject, and in mentioning
the names of those who united themselves with these prophets,
we do so, unconscious who may be their descendants, solely
to give the power of authenticating the facts to any who may
feel an interest in doing so.

'< Saltoun, April 7, 1709.

" I know not if you have yet heard that some of the Eng-
lish prophets have lately come to Edinburgh. There are
three girls and a boy that take agitations, and utter warnings
that are truly very surprising. They have with them two men
that pass under the name of Believers, and they write what
the former do deliver when under these agitations. I have
been but once in town since their arrival, and my curiosity
led me to .visit these strangers. I was conveyed to a room
where one of the believers was. His name is Mr Learner.
He seems to be a very modest and sincere man, and of a calm
and equal temper ; which I could safely discover by his way
of answering the queries and arguments, that were proposed
by some of ttie company. I had not the opportunity of dis-
coursing with him as I desired, or proposing what objections
I inclined to offer against their pretensions. There was a
mixed multitude in the room, and some of them so very fond
of disputing, that they interested themselves in every question
that was started, taking a sort of airy pleasure to show how
they could manage the argument both pro and con ; so that
I thought it best for that time to be silent. There were
present two of the girls, one named Ann Topham, about
fifteen or sixteen years of age; the other, Anna Maria King,
aged about twelve years. When some time was spent in a
loose kind of dispute, Mr Learner read a warning or two out of
one of Mr Lacy's books ; and a little after the oldest of the two
girls last mentioned was suddenly seized with the usual
agitations, and pronounced a short warning with which I was
indeed surprised. It was good sense and well connected, and
had a great air of piety. The agitation lasted about a quarter
of an hour, and was pretty severe ; yet I observed she was
not fatigued by it, for it neither altered her colour nor put her

394 FALSE REVIVALS.

into a sweat. Mr Fletcher's * lady happened to be in town
next day, and heard her deliver another warning, wherein she
spoke of our Lord' scorning to cleanse the whole creation offitihi-
ness, so that no unclean thing should remain therein. The agita-
tion was sharp, and lasted about half an hour ; yet, as soon as
it was over, Madame Fletcher felt her pulse, and it went very
slow. She had no beating at her heart, nor was she in a
sweat, which is somewhat odd. She is, as I am informed, a
very dull, ignorant creature, scarce able to speak any tolera-
able sense when free of those agitations. When I go to town
again, 'tis like I may enquire more particularly about them ;
and if you think it worth your while, you shall have what far-
ther information I am able to give you concerning them in my
next. All I can now say is, that I am persuaded the warn-
ing I heard from the above-mentioned girl was none of her
own. So that of necessity it must either have been a conn'd
lesson — for which I apprehend there are some presumptions
not altogether improbable — or it must be ascribed to the influ-
ence of a spirit, whether good or bad I will not yet venture to
determine, though I must own there are several things about
them, which I do not see how they can be reconciled with the
character of the good spirit." # # *

"Saltoun, August 12, 1709.
* • " The three English prophets of the second mission,
whom I named in my last, came to Edinburgh about the
middle of June. Mr Dutton is a man of a cleanly tight spirit,
though of no great learning. He was some time clerk to
Baron Scroop (now one of the Barons of Exchequer here),
who gives a very favourable account of his behaviour while
he served him in that post, before he joined the prophets.
The other two are men of no learning. Mr Nut had been
formerly a Quaker. He seems to be a plain, sincere man,
and to have a sense of religion beyond what is common. Mr
Glover was an Anabaptist. He is a simple, but, as far as I
can judge, an ingenuous man. Their behaviour at Edinburgh
has been much more prudent and cautious than that of the
former. They lived very soberly, without giving any ground
for the least surmise of what is scandalous and offensive. I
several times heard their warnings, which were indeed very
singular, particularly those of Mr Dutton. Several well-dis-
posed people have been much affected with them. But that

* The celebrated Fletcher of Saltoun.

PROPHETS IN EDINBURGH. 395

which surprises me most is, that the agitations have seized
about six or seven persons in Edinburgh already, and it is said
there are some others who have the previous symptoms,
though not so discernible as the former. Some of those who
were lately agitated are of your acquaintance j viz. Mrs Ire-
land, Mrs Margaret Middleton (daughter of the Principal),
and Mrs Isabel Cameron, .daughter to Mr Cameron, with
whom you boarded when at the College. You know these
persons were of an excellent character, which makes the thing
look more surprising. I cannot tell if ever you heard of one
Mrs Catherine Orum. She was an intimate friend of Bar-
nes's, and he gives her an extraordinary character. She was
the first that felt the agitations here. I had occasion to dis-
course with her since, and I must say I was more satisfied with
what passed in that conversation than with all that ever I read
or heard of the prophets. She is one that has been for a con-
siderable time engaged in the pursuit of a spiritual life, and she
gives a most distinct and surprising account of the interior
state of her soul while under agitations. About fifteen days
ago one of the new inspired (the lady Abden) began to speak,,
and delivered a warning, which ordered two of the English
prophets to return to their native country, viz. Dutton and
Nutt. This they have obeyed, leaving Glover behind with Mr
Noble the scribe, who might bear the brunt of the persecution
whioh is now raised against them since the spreading of their
spirit. These two last mentioned have lain these eight or ten ,
days in the most disgraceful prison — the Correction- house —
and it is not easy to have access to them. How long they
shall continue there nobody knows. They were committed by
an order of the Town Council, though it is said the Queen's
advocate (Sir David Dalrymple) refused to meddle in the mat-
ter, and declared he knew no law against them. They wanted
not some to appear for them, but in vain. Public thanks
have been returned to the magistrates of Edinburgh, from the
pulpit, for the godly zeal they have expressed on the occasion,
and they have been exhorted to go on as they have begun. In
the mean time the imprisoned bear the hardships and disgrace of
their present state very cheerfully, and are ready to suffer more
if called to it. The new-inspired, and all w ho are thought in the
least to favour them, want not a sufficient trial of their pa-
tience. They are most unmercifully lashed by the tongues of
all, and have the utmost contempt poured out upon them.
Many scandalous stories and tales are industriously spread to
defame them, though all who know any thing of the persons
agitated must own, that they weie not ouYy Ire* <& «c^ ^sss\%

396 FALSE REVIVALS.

that is scandalous hitherto, but had the reputation of gravity
and piety above the common rate: They have their meetings
daily, though very private, and there is none of them that
speaks yet, except the Lady Abden. She is a very simple
creature ; but as I am told by those who know her well, she
has led a pious life, and was particularly remarkable for her
meekness and humility. She was some time married, but is
now a widow, and has but one child. I was surprised t'other
day to hear her deliver an excellent warning, and a prayer so
sublime, and in such a strain of humility and resignation, as it
will be hard to find any thing beyond in the profoundest mys-
tics. It is thought some of the rest will speak in a little time.
God knows what this will turn to. It seems to be going for-
ward under all the clouds and difficulties that darken it. May
the Father of lights give us light in darkness, and save every
sincere soul from the snares of a deluding spirit."

" Saltoun, 5th September, 1709.

* * * " Mr Glover, the English prophet, and his attend-
ant, Mr Noble, of whom I wrote to you in my last letter,
were some days ago carried from the Correction-house to
Newhaven, and from thence conveyed in a boat to the road
of Leith, where they were put aboard a ship that was to
sail for Newcastle. Thus they are sent back to their own
country. I can as yet give you no farther account of those
they have left behind at Edinburgh. None of them have

spoken yet but , who delivers a great many warnings,

and has given several blessings. I apprehend in a little time
you may hear of some other of your acquaintances there
being seized with agitations."

" Saltoun, Feb. 5, 1710.

• ••,<« ^ s i our prophets, I have but little to say at this
time, but perhaps it will surprise you more than any thing you
have yet heard from me on this subject. In short, those of
our acquaintances who have interested themselves in this
matter, are so far from being shaken by what has lately hap-
pened in the case of the Lady Abden, that they seem to be
more confirmed than ever. There are two things that have
contributed much to this. One is, that Mr Ingles (sometime
minister at Burntisland, who was deposed several years ago
by the Synod of Fife for owning Jac. Behmen's principles)
has lately engaged in this dispensation. Now,. they look on
him as one that is in the divine light, and that has had extra-
ordinary communication witYi Gc&fot \\\fc %^ft£& «£\&w ^eais.

PROPHETS IN EDINBURGH. 397

And he affirms, that it is revealed to him that this is a legal
dispensation of the Father, in the spirit and power of Elias,
and therefore accompanied with agitations to awaken the
world, but that this will quickly cease, and be followed by that
of the Son, in which none shall be made use of as instruments,
but the regenerate only, and this dispensation shall be in the
small still voice. The other thing will surprise you yet more.
It is, that Barnes has owned his conviction, that this dispen-
sation is divine, which he thinks he has from the divine light,
having attained to it only by the method of silent prayer. He
is so firm and positive in this matter, that he says no external
argument can ever make him doubt of this dispensation. For
as his conviction was never bottomed on any outward thing
but (as he believes) on the Rock of Israel, so it is not in the
power of any thing but his own infidelity to destroy it. All
outward disappointments, and failings of predictions, yea, and
things more stumbling, if they should happen, would not in
the least move him. He needs but to have his silent recourse
to his Heavenly Father, sinking all his doubts and fears into
the inexhaustible abyss of his mercy, and he finds his soul
restored to its former peace and tranquillity, and his convic-
tion more bright than before. To this purpose he expresses
himself, in a letter to Dr G., of which I doubt not the Dr
will give you a more particular account. This has mightily
son firmed the late converts; so that they are not only agi-
tated still, but begin now to speak. The Lady Clava has de-
livered several warnings in our language. Mrs Orum, they
say, speaks in an unknown tongue sometimes for an hour to-
gether. Mr Inglis supposes it to be the language of nature.
Their number has of late increased, by Jo. Moult and Mr
Giles, their arrival from Ireland — and about eight days ago
there arrived from London Mr Nutt and Mr Noble (who
were here last summer), together with Ann Topham and Anna
Maria King, who were two of the first set that came to Edin-
burgh. I hear that Ann Topham, in a blessing that she gave
to Nutt and Noble some days ago in the name of God, told
them that they were not now to keep within doors, but they
must prepare to go to the market-place and deliver their warn-
ings openly. I have now done with what I have to say on
this head. I mightily dread the consequences of this mat-
ter, and shall be glad if my fears are disappointed."

" Saltoun, March 9, 1710.

" Dear Brother,

" I should have answered yout \ast ^teaet^ xx^xl ^o»
receipt of it, but that you still requite of me a. fatftas* *rs»\«*

398 FALSE REVIVALS.

of our prophets, which obliged me to wait till I had informa-
tion from Edinburgh, for I have not been in town myself. I
doubted nothing of your being surprised with the account I
gave you of our friend Barnes, his declaring so positively for
the prophets — and I assure you, it would give him no small
offence that you determine so peremptorily against them. He
is so firmly persuaded of the truth of thi3 dispensation, that it
is in vain to attempt to undeceive him. If you read my last
over again, you may safely perceive it. He owns that he has
an inward illumination from God, to assure him that this dis-
pensation is divine, and therefore he must needs believe it to
be so, whatever any man can say to the contrary. He has
quite another view of the matter than you seem to have. You
look on it as an apparent delusion, so gross, so exterior, and
so opposite to all the design of the interior life, that you won-
der how a man of his character should be catched by it. But
he would tell you it is a dispensation so interior, so divine, so
pure, and so much subservient to all the designs of the inward
life, that he never felt his soul so powerfully touched, and so
mightily advanced in all interior virtues, as since he was ac-
quainted with it. Indeed, I thought it my duty to discourse
freely with him on this head, which I did without reserve,
and at great length, but nothing I was able to say could make
any, the least impression. He asked me several times if
I had any particular vocation from God that this was delu-
sion. This I could not pretend to, and since 1 could not,
whatever else I could say was nothing. I happened to have
with me a letter I had received from Mr Ramsay, which con-
tained his to Mr P 1, together with Mr P.'s return. I

hoped the reading of Mr P.'s letter (which was on this argu-
ment) might have touched him, though what I said did not.
But still he was as firm as ever, and demanded if Mr P. af-
firmed that he had any interior light from God in this matter ;
to which I could say nothing, only I told him that we were
to presume in charity that Mr P., in examining of this matter,
would have the same method, and follow the same rules he
recommends so much to others. In short, it is altogether in
vain to make any attempt to shake B., and therefore I am re-
solved to speak no more on this subject to him. I find his
letters are like to make impressions on some others. Dr G.
has translated some of them into Latin, and designs to trans-
mit them to Mr P. *Tis like they may come to your hands
as soon as this, if not sooner. I hope you will let me know
Mr P.'s sense of them. You need not doubt, after all this,
but that the rest of your acquamtantea, forKvetl^ mentioned,
*re still firmly in the belief of tY«a tk^w $\*^tjs»&<wi. "tV^

PROPHETS IN EDINBURGH. 399

have been not a little confirmed by what has lately happened
in Woolmote's family, where two persons having received a
blessing and a promise of the spirit from Mr Nutt, were some
days after seized with agitations, and spoke each of them under
the first agitation. The one is chaplain in the family. I
have not heard his name — the other is a servant maid called
Ramsay. This last uttered, they say, an admirable prayer
under her first agitation. What the chaplain said I know not,
but I am told that some time after at Edinburgh, under agita-
tions, he spoke somewhat extravagantly, which was like to
have shaken some of the new converts, but the rest made no-
thing of it, imputing it to the disorder of his imagination,
which, as they allege, often happens to the newly- inspired
in the beginning. Since that time they have met with a
new disappointment. Mr Nutt had, some considerable time
ago, blessed Mrs Orum, under the operation of their spirit,
and in the blessing there was a solemn promise that her mouth
should be opened to speak plainly on the first day of this
month of March. There were several other circumstances
which rendered this blessing more solemn than ordinary. This
raised a great expectation in all concerned ; but when the day
came, and they were duly convened, she spoke nothing but a
few broken words, so that they were all sensible that the pro-
mise was not fulfilled, as they expected it should have been.
This is very uneasy to Mrs Orum herself, because she reckons
the disappointment is entirely owing to some failure on her
part, but the rest do easily digest it as a new trial of their
faith. You see how hard it is to make any impression on the
minds of these persons. Nothing but the powerful grace ot
God can recover them. I hope he will have compassion on
such as are humble and sincere, and will not leave them under
the power of delusion. As for the English prophets, after the
appearances that they made once and again at the Cross, and
in the marketplace of Edinburgh, the magistrates made strict
search for them, and were like to treat them severely. At
last,' they had warnings to go for Ireland, which they have
obeyed. Only Mr Gibs lies in prison at Edinburgh. I think
you have enough of the prophets for this time."

" Saltoun, May 1, 1710.
# # # " The affair of our prophets seems still to go for-
ward, notwithstanding all their disappointments. I had occa-
sion to see Barnes at Edinburgh since I wrote to you, and
though I had resolved not to engage with him on that argu-
ment again, yet he brought in the discuss\ow, *o \\\aX\ <ysv&^

400 FALSE REVIVALS.

not handsomely avoid it. He is still firm as before, and (what
I knew not when I wrote my last) he has for some consider-
able time had agitations. They who have seen him under
them, say they are very violent. I observed nothing of that
nature while I was in company with him, except some little
startings, which were not very perceptible. However, he
affirms, with the greatest assurance, that he feels these bodily
emotions, accompanied with such interior effects in the very
centre of his soul, as must either come from the spirit of God,
or we have no certain marks and characters whereby to dis-
tinguish the good spirit from the bad. He told me he had
lately received a long letter from Dr G. on that subject, but
it seems what the Dr says does not in the least alter his
thoughts. I reckon by this time he is at Roseharty. He de-
signed to give our friends there a visit about the beginning of
May. I have nothing else to add on this subject, but that
Robert Stuart is also agitated. His agitations, they say, are
violent, but they do not attack him while teaching his scho-
lars. I hear Sir Richard Bulkley died some time ago in Ire-
land. There were great promises frequently made to him,
which have not been accomplished, but this will be reckoned
no difficulty, because they take such promises to have been
conditional, though there was no condition expressed. It
seems the spirit of this dispensation has some part to act yet
amongst us. Time will, I hope, give some farther discovery
of it."

" Saltoun, May 81, 1710.
* * * "I have scarce time to say any thing concerning
our prophets. I shall only tell you of another of your good
friends, who is so far engaged in that matter as to be seized
with agitations. 'Tis Mr Falconer — whom you know to be
a pious, well-accomplished gentleman. I hear also that a
boy, who serves Mr Kenneth Gordon, advocate, has for some
time been agitated. I am informed that Mr Dutton and Mr
Glover (two of those whom we had here last summer), to-
gether with their wives, and Mr Lardner as a scribe, are ordered
to prepare for a journey to Edinburgh. God preserve us from
the power of delusions, and check the progress of every de-
luding spirit ! I have seen a book lately published at London,
containing, among other things, a historical account of Mon-
tanism. I know not if ever you had occasion to ask Mr P.
his thoughts of Montanus and his prophetesses. 'Tis like he
may have considered that matter.

" I am, dear Brother, yours,
" Arch. Lundie."

PROPHETS IN EDINBURGH. 401

There are some letters missing in this narrative, neither
does it carry us to the termination of the story ; hut it is most
probable that this delusion melted away, and that its extinc-
tion was scarcely observed, as has been the fate of most of its
fellows. The story is told with a simplicity and candour, and
with an absence of all epithets of censure, that seems to have
been formed on the model of the gospel narrative, and we
cannot but esteem the good man who so scrupulously honour-
ed all that was estimable about these persons, without scorn-
ing or contemning the folly wliich he so much deprecated,
The foundation of their error is obvious. Instead of regard-
ing the canon of scripture as completed, and expecting the
teaching of the Holy Spirit to consist in the application of
the words already revealed to their souls, they expected in-
ward vocations or revelations, which were to their heated
imaginations of more weight than the word of God. Instead
of the Spirit taking of the things which are Christ's, and show-
ing them to their souls, they adopted the warnings, and pro-
phecies, and dictations of each other, "giving heed to seducing
spirits." The student of scripture is naturally impressed with
the care of Christ over his church ; in that he has told us
before, tliat '* in the latter times some shall depart from the
faith," lest we be perplexed and drawn aside by such delu-
sions ; and of all the variety of form that apostasy has assum-
ed, there is not one which has not been foretold and delineated
as belonging to the perilous times which should come in the
last days.

No one can read these particulars of the prophets of 1709
and 1710, without recognising in almost each feature the opi-
nions, feelings, and pretensions of a party which was at its
height a hundred and twenty years later, when its founder,
Mr Campbell of the Row, was excluded from the Church of
Scotland. In both cases, it was not the profane and ungodly
who were seized with a set of new notions; but it was those
who had some experience of the internal work of grace on
the soul— who seemed to be the very flower of the Church
for piety and prayerfuln ess— that were drawn aside. The agi-
tations, the utterances, the warnings, the prophecies, all
remind us of the hackneyed phrase, " Mutato nomine de te
fabula narrator." The resemblance is complete, except in
the article of miracles, to which the prophets of 1709 seem
to have made no pretensions. We cannot but presume, that
if some of those who yielded themselves with such unsus-
nectine devotion to these delusions in l&WJ.Wi^BfcwAwsaa**.

402 FALSE REVIVALS.

with a detail of the proceedings and expectations of thos<
who preceded them by a century, it might have had a salu.
tary effect in patting them on their guard. The hope tha
such may he the effect of reading these statements, is th<
occasion of now giving these curious letters to the public.

FINIS.

1 D1NKURGH : PRINTED UV BALLANTYN1 AfiV < 0., 1'AVL'KWOItX.

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